Running... cause I can!!

Wednesday, Thursday - November 10 & 11

2009-11-12T08:56:00.002-06:00

Wednesday - decided to sleep in, ran 4 miles on a freakishly dark Town Lake trail after work. I started a tad bit late, around 5:30pm, and by the time I was making my way around, it was pitch black! Kinda spooky. No watch, no Garmin.. just me running.

Sidenote - I had to stop by Adrian's on my way home and I had the pleasure of seeing my hunka hunka husbands on the way :) Matthew, AJ, and Steve were running up Far West. I parked a few streets ahead and cheered for them. I gave Steve a special Foho "hug". Searched for Dee, but couldnt' find her. There were so many runners out, I had no clue. It was a nice ending to a good day.

Thursday
Time: 5:30am
Duration: 1:53:13
Workout: 10 miles of hills
Distance: 10 on the dot
Weather: a bit chillier, low 50's
People: Chuck and Peter and later Carolyn, then alone
Comments: Eeek. Hills. I don't feel in shape for hills quite yet, so my pace was ungodly slow... but I got them in. I started out with Chuck and Peter and was doing fine until we started climbing. The hills weren't bad, but I haven't been running them so I couldnt' keep up. I got to run with Carolyn for a few miles after that. Then I turned around and this is where the fun began.

I turned around too early by accident. I didn't read the rest of the directions that said to go to Rae Dell/Arpdale. Instead, I turned around as soon as I saw Arpdale, so I was about 2 miles short. I didn't notice this until Carolyn was gone and I had already started backtracking. We were doing an out and back, which you think would be easy. I started back and was immediately lost. I ended up running where I thought we should go and couldn't help but giggle because this was the place Dee and I got lost last year. I convinced her to run all the way down to Manchaca!! It was a funny, all time moments for us. I tried to recite her phone number, cause I wasn't sure if I could find my way back. I was running on Curto del something, Cinnamon, etc. I saw a Team Rogue person and thought I was going in the right direction, but when I didn't recognize the street names, I decided to go back to Lamar and try over again. Luckily, this made up the two miles that I was short. I finally got back on track using the map portion of the directions. Got to Rogue, showered, and made it to work :)

Tuesday - November 10, 2009

2009-11-10T13:34:00.002-06:00

Time: 5:15am
Duration: Not sure, Garmin died :)
Location: Rogue
Workout: 8 easy
Distance: 8 - Garmin died
Weather: Nice and cool
People: Chuck, Peter, Emily, then later Kim and Stephanie
Comments: I had set out to plan to run my Tuesday and Thursday runs with Chuck and his peeps. I think he's faster than I am right now, but want to get my dang speed back so anyone pushing me is a great thing. We started out, and it felt ok, and after about a mile, it felt pushed. Not pushed bad, but I know if I were running solo, I wouldn't be running as fast. It wasn't uncomfortable to where I couldn't do it, so I think it was perfect. They were running 10, so at around the 4 mile marker, I turned off to do 8 as they had about a mile out and back they needed to do to get to 10. Steph and Kim were at the water and I didn't think I could hang, but decided to see how long I could go without them dropping me. I made it the entire time, and felt like I was pushing a tad bit more than when I was running with previous company. Good stuff, but Thursday, I'm going to see if I can hang with Chuck and company for the entire run.

Glad to be back in it, and I'm finally shedding the Hawaii (before and during) weight so I'm hoping the speed will come back.

Yay for running!!

Week 1 - Totals

2009-11-09T07:50:00.003-06:00

Monday - 4
Tuesday - 7
Wednesday - 0
Thursday - 8
Friday - 0
Saturday - 9
Sunday - 4

TOTAL - 32 miles.

Friday - Monday!

2009-11-09T07:49:00.001-06:00

Friday - OFF - never got around to running.
Saturday - 9 miles, 7 with the Cookies and 2 with Dee.
Sunday - 4 miles easy
Monday - 4 miles easy.

Thursday, November 5, 2009

2009-11-05T23:51:00.003-06:00

Time: 5:30am
Duration: 1:26:37
Location: Barton Springs
Workout: 8 mile easy run
Distance: 8.33 miles
Avg Pace: 10:24
Weather: Weatherbug showed 40 when I left my house
People: Team Rogue, ran with Stephanie for a few miles
Comments: Since I got 10 hours of sleep, waking up at 4am felt great. I had plenty of time to pack my clothes for work and eat breakfast on my way to the workout. We ran from Barton Springs to Exposition and back on the back roads that I take home from work. I can't wait until I get my groove back. I ran by myself, and at the water stop about half way, Steph slowed her run down to run a few miles with me. It was nice catching up, but I would rather not slow anyone down. I'm actually enjoying pushing myself on the runs solo and trying to catch and play games with myself on not letting people get out of my sight.

I'm going to run my 4 miles I skipped on Wednesday tomorrow, shhhh... I don't want to skip workouts, and I don't think changing out days will matter, not in the first week. REALLY looking forward to running with my FOOLS on Saturday morning. Just an easy 10 miler, then it's into week 2!!!

I'm aiming for 70 mile peak, might even go all out and try for 80 if I can get used to the early morning runs :)

Wednesday, 11/04/09

2009-11-05T23:49:00.002-06:00

Week 1 of Team Rogue and I can tell it's going to take me awhile to get used to this new schedule. I'm NOT a morning person. Tuesday, I made it to class, but ended up coming straight home today and going to bed at 6pm. Yes... I made an executive decision to back out my normal Wednesday poker game with the guys because #1 I left all my money in Hawaii, and #2, I was exhausted from work. I proceeded to come home, undress, and crash from 6pm till 4am the next morning. 10 hours of sleep... ahhh...

No workout.

Tuesday - November 3, 2009

2009-11-03T07:46:00.003-06:00

Time: 5:30am
Duration: 1:01:43
Location: Rogue
Workout: 7 mile easy run with 4 strides
Distance: 7 miles (or on Map My Run 6.65)
Avg Pace: 8:49's or 9:16's (will wear Garmin for more accuracy from now on)
Weather: 50, nice and chilly but perfect for running!
People: Team Rogue, but ran alone
Comments: First team workout, woo hoo! I got there about 20 minutes early, played with the rope, attempted to stretch by watching what others were doing. I went to Happy Office Hours last night and decided to start with the 60 mile macro. I think I'm going to do the 70 and see how long I can keep it up :) Macro showed 4 for today, but once everyone convened, the shortest option was 7. So I did that. Pretty happy with how the run went. It felt good to run again. If the map was accurate, I ran 8:49's which is a shocker! I didn't believe it, so I mapped it out online and came out with 6.65. Even then, 9:16's is WAY faster than I've run in the last year!!

Maybe to running solo chasing people will do me some good. As people passed me, I tried to keep them in sight as long as I could before someone else would pass. Looking forward to this season.. it's gonna be a good one :)

Team Rogue - 1st workout!

2009-11-02T21:44:00.003-06:00

Ok, it was only 4 miles alone, but 1 down, how many more to go? Nothing really to update other than I've let myself do what I promised myself I wouldn't after Ironman training. That's to lose the fitness I gained, get fat again, and get slow :(

Time: 4:45pm
Where: Town Lake Trail (I still don't like the way Lady Bird Lake sounds)
Distance: 4 miles
Pace: Awful 43:39 for 4.17, pathetic, 10:28's.
Script: Nice and easy (thank goodness)

I've got my work cut out for me this go around, but looking forward to it!

Next up: Finish the Hawaii pics over the next two weeks and trying to make working out at 5:30am a fun thing :)

Looking forward to making new friends in the morning.

Hawaii 2009 - Day 2, October 23rd

2009-11-01T21:19:00.007-06:00

Friday, October 23rd.

We had slept with ALL the windows and doors open. The night weather was perfect. It was just cool enough to use both the sheet and comforter and not be too hot or too cold. The sounds of the ocean crashing against the rocks just a few feet away was nice. We both woke up incredibly early, since our body clocks weren't set yet. Poor Adrian never really got adjusted, but I think it only took me a few days. And I'm a sleeper and he's not. We woke to a beautiful vision of the sun and the ocean.

Every morning, we'd see these people. They'd go and go and go. And really early in the morning, 6am. We leisurely got up, loaded Adrian's bike and some clothes. I took a running outfit in case I decided to run while Adrian was pre-riding the course. That was all we took. We made it to the race site. I could post pics for everything, but will put the details in our Flickr account. The hotel wasn't that spectacular, and we were happy with our decision to not stay in a hotel or condo for our trip. We decided that since it was a once in a lifetime trip, we'd go all out and find something secluded and beachfront. Our place was perfection. We were within a mile from the town of Paia, we could see the beach and walk to it within 2 minutes. The host hotel was nice, but not $350 a night nice. There was a nice atrium in the middle, but that was about it. Adrian picked up his packet, and later in the day I picked up mine for the trail race. Adrian pre-rode the course, and I decided against the run, cause I didn't want to get sweaty for whatever we were going to do for the rest of the trip. I hadn't been exercising up to this trip as it was, wasn't about to start.

Adrian pre-rode the course, and I decided to venture out to a shopping strip. I found the dress I wore to the luau, got Adrian some swim trunks (which happened to be a great idea. He wore them the entire week!) and the flower I wore in my hair the entire week, a papaya to eat for breakfast, and the coffee that Adrian's mom requested. By the time I got back, Adrian called and was done riding the course. Perfect timing!!

I picked up my trail race packet and noticed that only 5 girls were in my age group! At that moment, I had wished I had done more training and not let my base from the Ironman slip away, but figured, if I could just beat 2 out of the 5, I could finish top 3. Uh, and we all know that's NEVER happened. I was kinda excited. More to come on this later.

We left and decided to drive the West side of Maui. No plans, just playing it all by ear. We finally got to see what we were expecting. Beautiful ocean views, gorgeous views of nothing but lush green beautiful Hawaii. We stopped at all the overlook sections, took pics galore, and enjoyed the drive. We ended up going to the Maui Ocean Center and got suckered into that. We made the best of it, but it was definately NO Sea World. Very boring and a waste of money to say the least. We ate a yummy lunch at the Beach Bums Bikini Bar, and had an awesome waitress. Adrian had a wrap and I had fish tacos. During the drive, we stopped at some beach access parts and threw on our swimming goggles (yes, for pool swimming and tri's, not snorkeling goggles) and went exploring. We saw a fish. Ha! But it was fun and adventurous. I didn't have my swimsuit with me, and we stopped at one place, but just couldn't see spending $40 on a bathing suit, when I had packed 4, but they were all at the house! So I just threw on my running shorts. We stopped a few times to swim, but most of the day was driving and stopping at all the places to look at the views.

Adrian was adamant about getting the entire island to abide by his picture taking rules. When we were at the Maui Ocean Center, they had the guy standing there wanting to take your picture then charge you an arm and a leg to buy it. When he approached us, Adrian asked that he use our camera. Of course he declined, in which case Adrian grabbed the nearest couple and we exchanged pics. We took a pic of them with their camera and vice versa. We did throughout the week. Every time we'd see a couple, we'd exchange pics. Of course, everyone jumped at it, since it was a chance to get a picture together. Worked out perfectly.

We ended the night with our hoity toity dinner. We went to Mama's Fish House for dinner. Everyone I talked to beforehand and from what I read on the internet said it was the best place to go. Not so much for us. We aren't the hoity toity couple. The waiter wasn't very nice. He was pissed off he didn't get the 12 top next to us, but instead got us. You could tell in his attitude, not pleasant whatsoever. We went all out, as was our motto for the trip. Adrian ordered oysters, and 6 came out, and were the size of a nickel. Pathetic. I guess we're used to Texas sized, but he claims even the flavor wasn't even to die for. I got the popular crab and lobster filled fish, and he got a pasta dish with scallops, shrimp, and other sea creatures. When he asked to have the broth on the side, waiter cringed, but grateful that he did. The meal wasn't that great. It was good, but not $162 good. We would have rather eaten at the place we ate the night before. Too hoity toity, and the food didn't match the price tag.

Went home and to bed. This night, I couldn't sleep cause we had let some mosquitos in and they were bugging me all night. I was restless. As soon as I fell asleep, Adrian would wake up around 2-3am for his middle of the night potty. I love sleeping with him, literally :) He ALWAYS wakes up in the middle of the night. And every night he did, he'd wake me up with... "Pah-cilla." He says it just soft enough to barely wake me. "Pah-cilla... Pah-cilla.. you awake?". He says this until he wakes me, which is funny. Then we're both awake, end up cuddling and go back to sleep. Nothing sexual, just cute moments that I love. One cute way that he can tell is I'm playing possum, which I do is that he says he loves me to see if I'm awake or not. Sometimes, if I just pretend to stay asleep, he'll give up on the "Pah-cilla's" and turn over and go back to bed. But lately, he's gotten smarter and follows up the "Pah-cilla", with a "Pah-cilla... I love you." And I can't help but grin... and my cover is blown, and he sees that I'm awake. One of the things I love about us :)

Hawaii 2009 - Day 1, October 22nd

2009-11-01T21:06:00.004-06:00

These next several blogs are more for Adrian and I to attempt to save all of our memories. Will be long, and I don't except many friends to read :)

We arrived in Maui, Hawaii at 3pm Hawaii time (Austin time of 8pm). I think we were still on a high from actually being there that we weren't tired from the long flight. We got off the plane and oddly enough, the people weren't too pleasant. Adrian asked one of the security guards where the oversized luggage was and he was pretty snooty with him. We were too happy to have him ruin our day. We picked up the rental car, got our luggage packed and were on our way. It smelled like poo, literally. There was a funky smell in the air. We later found out there was a sugar cane factory nearby and they smog from the manufacturing was giving off this awful smell. So our first impression of Hawaii was crappy people and stinky! The scenery looked like El Paso or Lubbock. All dead landscaping. What the heck? Where's the clear blue water and mountains of green lush???

We arrived at our cottage and it was PERFECT. We parked in the wrong spot by accident and came in the walkway and were greeted by the people that tend the estate. Extremely nice! She showed us to our cottage and took our pic and told us everything we needed to know. We quickly unpacked, showered, and went to search the nearby town for something to eat. We found a place called Paia Town Market. What an awesome little restaurant. Wait staff was awesome and the food was excellent. I ordered Mahi Mahi (first time) and Adrian got the salmon. Delicious food and the atmosphere was laid back. We walked around afterwards and realized it was the perfect little town to be next to. No hotels around, lots of tiny shops, tons of locals wandering around aimlessly, and it was just nice and cozy. We both had an awesome nights sleep. We were finally exhausted. Great first day!

Do we need a doggy tax break?

2009-10-20T11:37:00.001-05:00

Cut and paste, but thought I'd share :)
Posted Oct 19 2009, 12:43 PM by Kim Peterson
Rating:
Filed under: Kim Peterson, Politics
Animal care can be outrageously expensive. I've probably spent enough money on my cat's ailing kidneys to buy a small car.
Should the government be helping out? One Republican congressman thinks so, and has introduced a bill that allows pet owners to deduct the cost of animal care from their taxes.
The bill would let you deduct as much as $3,500 a year, according to NPR.
Rep. Thaddeus McCotter of Michigan said he's heard that economic hard times are causing some people to give up their pets.
"When you think about the relationship between people and pets and the humane way that it helps people think, it seemed to me to be a good idea," McCotter said in a video about the bill, according to NPR.
Some pet owners are thrilled at the idea. But it seems to me that if you choose to have a pet, you should be able to pay for it.
Julie DelCour, a columnist at Tulsa World, summed up the issue nicely: "We have a $11 trillion national debt; and 46 million people without health insurance," she writes. "With those realities, Congress can ill afford to pass out tax deductions like Milk Bones. This novelty bill will die in committee and McCotter's 15 minutes of pandering to us animal owners will end."

Blog Smog

2009-09-29T19:07:00.002-05:00

I always have these clever ideas and thoughts and think, "That would be a funny blog." But never get around to taking the time to sit down and type it out. Days pass and turn into weeks, and then turn into months. Going to try and attempt to keep up with blogging. Going to try and go back to the basics.

To get caught up...

Accident was complete stress that lead to me quitting Team Marsh for financial reasons.
Accident lead to stress from work with having to take time off for doctor's appointments.
Accident lead to awesome boyfriend helping me buy a new to me, used car.
Accident lead to me, attempting to save money and waiting to join a training group until we get back from Hawaii.
I have an eating disorder :) I stress eat.
Hawaii is in less than a month.

I stress eat, as most women do. There's just something about me NEVER maintaining my goal weight. I get there, and stay for ONE day, then start binge eating. I've been on a binge eating frenzy for the past MONTH! I'm just gonna put it out there. I get to 128, then shoot back up. I'm sitting at 136. Yes, I said it. My weight for all the world to see. You can definitely tell when you see me. The pooch is back :)

Going back to basics...

Time: 6pm

Run: 35 minutes~3+ miles

Not gonna wear Garmin, and going to attempt to get back to 128 for Hawaii.

T minus 23 days.

Too Much to Blog About!

2009-09-03T22:07:00.004-05:00

Well, as fast as some things happen, they change!!!

I got rearended two weeks ago. Stupid jackass wasn't paying attention. I was on Duval, about to merge onto 183 north, and I stopped to oncoming traffic. The jackbutt behind me assumed I had gone and drove right into me!! Hit me pretty hard. My first reaction was, "You've GOT to be kidding me!!!" I pulled over, got out, and the damage was pretty bad. At first, my first intial reaction was, "I guess it's time to get a new car anyways..." I got the guys insurance info and let him leave. I was pretty irritated. I wasn't mean to him, but he apologized over and over. Something about having a rough week and having too much on his mind. Blah blah blah. I called Adrian, but this was the week before Xterra Austin. One of his A races. After finally getting a hold of him, he was on his way out to pre-ride the course. You know you're dating a triathlete when your girlfriend automatically realizes that pre-riding the course is WAY more important than driving to girlfriend and consoling in the wreckage. In full on work clothes and heels, I managed to pull off my bumper that was hanging by one nut/bolt. I put it in my car, and drove slowly home with my hazards on.

Fast forward through crappy week posted previously.... I've got a messy financial past, and without completely revealing my less than stellar stupid younger days, I came to a realization that a car payment right now, just isn't the best idea. This also made me think about my current budget. The one item that I didn't realize was costing me so much money was training. I was told by several Ironman friends that adding up the costs from doing IMCDA would do more harm than good. I never racked up the costs, but off the top of my head, it was several thousands. Who knew $1.99 Gu's would add up?

My conclusion from all this soul searching, budget narrowing, and beyond stressful week was that I can live on less. WAY less. After much heartache, and several ups and downs of "The accident WASN'T my flipping fault, why should I re-arrange my life???", "Insurance companies blow chunks!" (Yes, I know I work for them and have for the past 12 years), and "Do I really like triathlons??". Well, I came to the conclusion that... despite the accident not being my fault, it wasn't and it wasn't intentional. It was an accident. I understand the insurance industry, but do feel jipped. The purpose of insurance is to put the person back in his/her status as BEFORE the accident. Financially, physically, all of the above. To restore them to as close as they were prior to the accident. Before the accident, life was grand, I had a running car, old, but running, AC, legal, radio, etc... After the accident, not enough money to fix car, blah blah blah. I could rant forever on how I feel I got screwed, but it's the past.

I also realized that even though I wasn't verbal about it, I was already mentally succumbing to the bike. In just one month, I was already doubting myself, feeling like a failure, and struggling with the mental aspect of "the bike." I hate it how it grips me, but it does. I did the Run Far Time Trial.. and sucked. I knew I'd suck, but the 2nd time around, I realized that I still sucked, and that burning sensation, and the lack of oxygen, just wasn't worth feeling that way for 20+ minutes. I guess I figured out that I don't have the will become a faster cyclist. As hard as I pushed, I was still at the BOTTOM.

I asked myself, "Why do I train?" I think I train because I want to be more like Adrian. Sounds ridiculous, but it was fun for the 6 months of CDA training to talk about 60, 80, 100 mile rides. It was nice having Adrian proud of me for not giving up and riding for over 8 hours and finishing. It was nice chasing him in the water, getting faster with my overall tri times, comparing notes, doing tri's together, etc. I followed in his footsteps and joined Team Marsh, hoping they could solve my cycling issues. As much as I complain about the accident, it might have been a blessing in disguise. I didn't waste too much of Amy's time, and it helped me figure out what I love most. Running. When I met Adrian, I was running, and was happy doing it. I continued running, joining Team Rogue Season I :) I genuinely looked forward to 20+ mile run EVERY weekend, I looked forward to running with Dee, getting lost, going on adventures. I'd rarely NOT want to run. Granted, I missed workouts, but when I thought about it in general, I never cried because I didn't do a workout, I never cried when someone passed me, I never got upset and thought I couldn't finish when running. Running brought nothing but positives to my life.

Triathlons have done many positives, but the journey getting there felt like I was in a battle. Battle with my mind.

I've rambled on long enough. In short.... If you've stayed this long to read, you'll appreciate the bullet points.

No more training right now. No more Team Marsh (the timing isn't right for me, BUT I highly recommend Amy & Brandon. They beyond rock and it was the best one month of training that I've ever had. Personal attention, almost daily contact, love love loved the coaching aspect, my heart just wasn't in it.) www.team-marsh.com They have a spot available ;)
Getting back to running. Trying to wait to rejoin Rogue until after we get back from Hawaii.
Refocusing at work, I can admit I've been a slacker lately.
Supporting Adrian to make his Xterra dreams come true. Getting him to his race goals is WAY more fun than me sludging through the same tri and him having to wait an hour at the end for me. Going to also use this supporting as leverage to get him to pace me for the last few miles of my future marathons!
I am throwing the idea around in my head to go back to school.
Boston qualifying is back in my sights for 2010 or 2011 :)
Rogue better watch out, Foho's back!!!!!
Oh, and CDA2010 might not happen, final decision on that in 2010. But if you'd ask me right now, I'd say "Ain't gonna happen... Been there, done that, I don't think it's for me." and I'm finally ok with that.

Overwhelmed with Life - What a crappy week...

2009-08-26T20:44:00.005-05:00

No one to talk to on the phone, so I figured I'd puke up my vent here :)

Training is going OK. I started with Team Marsh August 1st, but got sick and attempted to half ass workouts, but missed some. Adrian had two weekends of Xterra races, and I preferred to support him rather than get my training in. Started fresh this week, and I've enjoyed it.

I can't ever seem to balance work and training. If I'm doing awesome with training, work suffers. If I'm doing awesome with work, training suffers. I can't find a balance, and I'm starting to think that doing well at both is near impossible.

This week in review:

Monday: Started out OK, overwhelmed with work and procrastinated on some pretty important things and it all caught up to me this week. Got my workout in, got a ton done at work, but still pretty stressed about the week to come.

Tuesday: I thought this was my worst day. Found out my car would 99% be totalled. I won't find out for sure until Thursday. Good, but bad. Good, because I know I need a newer vehicle, bad because I highly doubt my car is worth enough to get another vehicle without a car payment. I made it to the Run Far TT, and really thought I pushed a ton harder than two weeks ago, but was 6 seconds slower. I HATE, DESPISE being slow on the bike. It's what brings me to tears when it comes to training. I never get emotional or think I can't do anything when it comes to swimming or running, but put me on the bike and it's a 50/50 chance. Also, attempted to register for the Austin Tri, and it filled up on Monday. My luck and it put the nail in the coffin to a stressful day at work & disappointing training day.

Wednesday: I woke up, updated the Facebook with "happy, happy day!" and it ended up being worse. Had to meet with my two bosses on separate occasions for a chewing out session. I'm not going to lie that I have an AWFUL habit of procrastinating and putting things off until they become fires, but I'm also not the person to stand up for myself and argue back. I just sit there and take it, and let it eat me up. I hate it that I'm so emotional. Simple meeting of what needs to get done, what I need to do to get things done (asking for help, delegating, two things I'm AWFUL at), shed some tears, and swallowed everything that was said. I got a cheeseburger with fries for lunch, cause I'm a stress eater, and thankfully the meeting with both bosses followed as soon as I took my first bite, and when I got back, I had lost my appetite. I would say I'm 60% at fault, but anyways it just wasn't a good day at work. Completely overwhelmed and the only answer I can come to, is that I need to work more hours to get it done. More hours at work means missed training... go figure.

Thursday: Better be damn better than the first three days.

Done venting, ready to wake up and have a better day.. it's got to get better :) And in all this, I remind myself that it's just a job. Training is training, and I'm healthy, I'm employed, and I have wonderful friends surrounding me... all of whom won't answer their phones so I can vent!!! ROFL!

Here's to tomorrow being a kick ass day :)

To close this blog... Here's my favorite picture of Abare to make me smile. For Adrian's birthday present, I paid Josh Baker to take some REAL photos of the boys. You can see the rest on our Flickr page. www.flickr.com/adrianandpriscilla Something about unconditional love and a pink tongue makes all the worries and stresses go away for a few minutes...

Bonzi

2009-08-06T12:16:00.002-05:00

The heat is getting to us all. I took the boys to Bull Creek this weekend and my poor B was hot. The boys get to take a walk onthe trails DAILY :)

Team Marsh :)

2009-08-06T11:40:00.005-05:00

I'm excited to announce, I'm now part of Team Marsh :) I had discussed this with Adrian, and before I always thought that I couldn't train by myself. I need people to talk to, socialize with etc. After T3, which I did enjoy, I realized I did 98.5% of my training on my own anyways because I couldn't keep up with anyone. I started taking the bus to work, so trying to make it down south for workouts was near impossible now. The whole purpose of taking the bus was to minimize the driving of my super old car, so driving south after getting home from a bus trip seemed like it was defeating my purpose.

I went ahead and joined Amy's swim class to first try it out. Love, love, love it! I enjoyed the T3 swim class, but Amy's are so much cooler for me, personally. She stands at the end of each lane, calculates your times, watchs how you progress and actually takes the time to notice what you're actually doing. She does this with everyone in her class. I've learned new things, and it's just an added bonus that I get to swim next to Adrian. I've made some friends that push me, and it's consistent with each class. After a couple weeks, I got antsy. I was doing some running here and there, but neglecting the bike during the week. I went ahead and on a leap of faith I emailed Amy to see if she had any available spots to coach me. She did :)

I started August 1st, and I'm having a great time. It's obviously super early and we're still trying to figure out paces and stuff, but I'm now accountable to someone. And not just anyone, a super cool professional triathlete. If I don't get up to get a workout in, then I must not want it bad enough. She's convinced me to do some workouts before I come to work, which means waking up at 5am to run, whereas before I'd frown and say, "I'm not a morning person and I don't do workouts before I go to work." I tried it, and although I was tired later, it was pretty nice running in the dark, with no cars bustling by and just having my thoughts to myself. I've been on my bike 3 times already, and she's incorporated speed and hills into my bike regime :)

I can't wait to see the results. I'm more excited now about training for CdA 2010 than I ever was before. I am on a mission, and that mission is to finish the damn Ironman before the sun goes down. No more glowsticks for this girl!!!

If anyone else is interested, Brandon and Amy still have more available slots open if you'd like to change things up a bit and get some personalized coaching :)

Frankenthon Monster Marathon in Cedar Park

2009-07-27T09:38:00.001-05:00

Ah man, I'd totally do this, but I'm out of town... in Hawaii this weekend.

Check it out!

http://www.frankenthon.com/index.asp

69 Reasons You Might Be A Triathlete

2009-07-24T12:48:00.003-05:00

Adrian found a funny article with a mini-list, I went ahead and googled it and found this one. Pretty funny stuff :)

When asked, how old you are you answer 35-39.
Your idea of a great b-day is to run your age in miles with a couple of friends.
Your idea of a great date is to go for a 10 mile run with your date.
You try to impress girls with your marathon time after swimming 2.4 miles and biking 112 miles.
When asked how long your training was today you answer: three to four hours.
Your training is more limited by available time then how far you can run.
Your first thought when you wake up is how high your rest HR is.
You go for a run event and there's a thunderstorm and you enjoy being wet and dirty.
You think an Ironman is easier then a Marathon because you don't have to start by running fast.
You think it's natural to do your 'business' behind a tree in the woods.
Nobody believes you when you say 'Never again'.
You take part in the corporate challenge to improve your base speed.
You go for a 5 km cooldown run after a 5 km race just so that you can call it a training session.
You consider work, regeneration time between training sessions.
Your co-workers don't ask you if you're going to train this weekend, but how long and how far.
You have a water bottle when you drive your car.
You spend your 2 weeks annual vacation at a training camp.
During the vacations, when everybody else is partying, you go to sleep at 10:00 pm because you're going for a long ride the next day.
You know inside out how much Protein each energy bar has.
You seriously consider applying for citizenship in Tonga, Jemen or Tschad so that you can participate in the Olympic games.
When people praising you for being able to run 15 miles you're feeling insulted.
In the summer your legs are smoother then your girlfriend's.
Your kids grab water bottles and energy bars when you suggest a family stroll.
Your wife is not worried if you left for your run 2 hours ago.
You need a picture for a job application and you only have race pictures.
You use running T-shirts to clean your bike.
You are up everyday by 5:00 am, but never in work before 9:30 am!
That charming "cologne" you wear to work is chlorine
You take more showers in a locker room than at home
6:30 am is sleeping in
The dog runs and hides when you get the leash!
You think there are only two seasons during the year, racing and off.
You can't change the oil in your car but you can completely rebuild your bike in 45 mins
you spend more $ on training and racing clothes then work clothes
you spend 7 days going to 8 stores in 4 malls before buying a pair of running shoes but you take 1 afternoon to go to 1 car dealership and walk out with a new car 4 hours later.
When you see some lady watering her flowers and ask her if you can borrow the hose for a minute so you can fill up your water bottles.
You clean your bike more often than your car
Your car smells like a locker room.
You tell your co-workers that you are going to "do a long brick" on Saturday and just expect that they know what you are talking about.
When a co-worker asks if you are racing this weekend, you say "yeah, but I'm just running a 10K, so that is not REALLY a race".
You have more water bottles than glasses in your cupboard
You consider you bike saddle your "couch"
You consider Clif Bars as one of the four food groups
you are sick to your stomach at 2:00 in the morning and check the back of the Pepto Bismol bottle for caloric content and grams of carbohydrates, fat and protein.
you have plenty of water bottles, safety pins, and t-shirts.
you have trouble keeping lunch under 2000 calories.
you usually wake up at 4:00 in the morning but do not get to work until way after 9:00.
your bed-time reading on your night stand consists of a pile of: DeSoto catalogs; InsideTri; Triathlete, VeloNews, USMA Swim, etc.
you haven't bought work clothes in two years, yet you own bike shorts made by every manufacturer under the sun and can recite the merits of CoolMax, Supplex, etc. in your sleep!
your car has at least one Power Bar wrapper and two sets of work out clothes!
your laundry continually smells like someone locked the cat in overnight...
you wave at other cyclists, because all triathletes are friendly and if they are not, they are probably purist cyclists trying to get into triathlons and they do not know that triathletes are friendly.
you can't decide what tee shirt to wear to your next race.
you no longer take vacations but weekend triathlon junkets.
you have far more pairs of shoes in your closet than your non-tri wife does in hers
the one "suit" you own has a QR on the chest.
you're tempted to do your long rides in a speedo so that you don't have a stupid tan for your next race.
your bath towel is never dry.
you bring bottled water to a party so that you're properly hydrated for the next morning's long run, everyone else at the party also brought their own bottled water because you don't have a social life outside of triathlon. Oh yeah, and they all showed up by 7 pm and left by 10 pm.
your company announces mandatory unpaid shutdown days - every other Friday throughout the summer - in order to cut costs and stay in business, and your response is "Great - now I can do two long workouts on the weekends and still have an easy day."
somebody hands you a cup of water and you have to restrain yourself from pouring it on your head.
you forget that talking about daily LSD [Long Slow Distance] and speed weirds some people out.
you have no FRIGGIN idea what to do with yourself on your off day. Damnit, I mowed the lawn, cleaned the house, washed the car, and there's STILL 4 hours of daylight left! Aarrgghh!
you return from your *Mini-vacation* more exhausted than before you left!
you feel like you took the day off because all you did was swim 3000 yards.
You get done with a hard workout and drink a recovery drink while on the toilet and in the shower.
At any given moment you know exactly where your heart rate monitor and your swim goggles are, but cannot remember where you left you car keys. (turns 90% of the time they are in your bike bag
When non-racer friends tell you they ran/rode you automatically calculate their pace to see if you're still in better shape.
Cars pass you on the road when you're driving and you either drop back to get out of draft zone or speed up to attack!

Ramblings Update

2009-07-22T12:08:00.005-05:00

I've been meaning to blog on a more regular basis, but it's just hard to find the time. My favorite blog posts are bullet style, so here we go!!

I'm genuinely enjoying my "I'm not training for anything" mode that I'm in. It's been more than wonderful being able to sleep in on weekends, exercise when I want, where I want, and what time I want. I do miss exercising though.
In order to create some motivation, I read a book. "I Remember Running: The Year I Got Everything I Ever Wanted -- and ALS" It did remind me that I'm grateful to have a healthy body and it could all be taken away from me if I didn't enjoy it while I had it. Life is precious.
I joined Rogue's swim class with Amy Marsh. Last night was my first swim class and was extremely surprised. During T3 swim classes, I'd always aim for under 2:00 minutes for 100 meter swims. Last night we had to do 3 x 100 descending. I cranked out a 1:40, 1:37, and a 1:35. HOLY CRAP. That's the fastest I've EVER swam, and that's with no wetsuit. I'm excited to see how much progress I'll make under a different coach.

Super duper siked about Adrian and I's trip to Hawaii. Here's my favorite pic of where we'll be staying. Gotta love the hammock.

I spent the night at Adrian's last night and was in a lovey dovey mode. I had a big feeling of, "Wow, I'm a lucky gal." He means the world to me and I am truly appreciative and grateful that we're back in each other's lives again. He's the love of my life that I've been waiting for my entire life. Only took me 30 damn years to find him, but I'm forever grateful for having the opportunity to share my life with him.
I love my job.
I bit off all my nails shortly after CdA, not sure why. It's ALWAYS been a bad habit of mine growing up, and the fact that I kept them for a few years was a miracle. I'm trying to grow them again, but it's hard.
I'm on the back to eating good band wagon and it's going well :) At work we're doing a Healthy Weight Challenge, winner takes $255 worth of lottery scratch off's :) Oh yeah, that's enticing. We're super excited to see if anyone wins some mega bucks!!! Contest ends in September, perfect motivation to look hot for Hawaii in October!!
I miss running with my girls. We meet every now and then, but I miss when we were all training for the marathon together. We had some FUN times in there. We're all at different levels and are doing our own things, but I genuinely look forward to our meetings :)
I miss my T3 friends too :( I wish I could afford to be a part of all the training groups I want...
I lost my first toe nail!!! I remember after CdA, that it was REALLY sore, and the other night I went to clip them, and I clipped the whole darn thing off!!! It was just hanging out. Glad to be part of the "I lost a toe nail" club of runners. If only it came from a super fast marathon or something...
Lots going on this year.. Adrian's race calendar is full and I wish I got more than 2 weeks of vacation. I'm going to have to miss him going to Xterra Nationals so I can take the time to go to Hawaii.
I wish I were independently wealthy...

My first cell phone

2009-07-08T22:24:00.005-05:00

I was digging through my closet and found my first cell phone!! Check it out. It was a Sony through PrimeCo!!

Check out how big it was, and that awesome antennae!! How times have changed...

Hawaii, Hawaii, Hawaii!!!

2009-07-07T19:25:00.005-05:00

Holy crap. Holy crap. Holy crap.

Both Adrian and I have never been on a REAL vacation before. By real, I mean somewhere far far away where it's all about having fun and relaxing. Thankfully, our relationship, in my eyes, is perfection. We're both into exercising and fitness. I'm grateful that out of the two of us, he's the speedy one that actually places and wins races. I benefit because he qualified for Xterra Worlds in Maui, Hawaii in October. Bingo for the girlfriend!!

He loves, loves, loves the Xterra races. He's truly my off road guy. Loves mountain biking and he does incredibly well at the races. Here's my bragging portion :) He's won 12 hour events, he's placed 1st in his age group numerous times from 12 hour race to marathon distance (60 miles off road.. not sure why they call it marathon, when a marathon is 26.2 running) to 24 hour races. Yes, my idiot boyfriend rides his mountain bike on the same loop over and over and over. The race is to see which guy can do the most loop in a 24 hour period. If the laps are tied, it goes to the fastest rider. Crazy huh?? What's crazier is that supporting this crazy kind of race, is quite exhausting too :) Xterra is his first love. Two years ago, he started out doing really well in them, and then his father got cancer. Last year, he literally had to put his entire life on hold to move in with him and take care of him. His father passed last September. At the beginning of this year, it was all out Xterra. This was my honey's year to shine. He's got the best coach in town, Brandon Marsh, and together, they've gone leaps and bounds.

Xterra Regionals ended on the same weekend as my Ironman, which is why he couldn't come out to support me in CdA. There were 8 states showing at this race, and even international competition there. He placed 1st in his age group, 14th overall, including all the pro's. In order to qualify for Nationals, it's point based, and with the Xterra events he participates in, we knew Nationals was going to be a cinch. What we weren't expecting was the World's Qualification. Because he won his age group at National's, it guaranteed him a spot to World's. This is like qualifying for Kona on the Ironman scale. This is the cream of the crop.

Race is on Oct. 25th. Kona Ironman is on Oct 10. ARGH!! If it were only the week before or after, we could have swung to take an extra long vacation and spectate, but the two week gap is too much :( I booked tickets today :) Yes, with his credit card, hehehe. I just recently found something for me to do the day before!!

Oh yeah!! There's a 5k and 10k trail race the day before!! I'm signing up! What better way to enjoy beautiful Hawaii than a trail race :) Woo hoo!!

More to come on the trip of our lifetime.. just needed to vent some of my excitement!!!

Any suggestions on places to eat, things to do, things to see will be grately appreciated!! Only request from the boyfriend is he wants to swim with the dolphins :)

Lose It!

2009-07-07T12:09:00.002-05:00

It's a pretty cool iPhone app that helps you manage and track what you eat throughout the day and gives you all the stats on the food you're eating :) It's showing that I can get to my goal weight by November 6th. Mind you, this is my "I doubt I'll ever get there, but if I do, I'll crap my pants" goal :)

Various Comments and Random Items Bullet Style

2009-07-06T15:50:00.003-05:00

I have found this to be my most favorite way to post blogs now... bullet style.
I was trying to be clever with my news that I signed up for CdA 2010, and in the meantime I found out that there's quite a few friends that read my ramblings. I also learned about Google Reader and now am a subscriber and LOVE LOVE LOVE it!
I did sign up for CdA 2010, and thankfully I'm NOT wondering what the heck I did, I'm actually excited to get back into training :)
Two weeks later, I feel like a big fat slob. I haven't exercised in two weeks, minus a small 7 mile run and a 5 mile run/walk with friends.
I'm officially back onto training. No training group this time around, but going to see how long I can make it "training on my own" before I become so huge that I have NO clothes that fit :)
Shout out to Rachel: Yes, I remember you and Joey. Your comment was super flattering :) Thanks!
I've become green! I now ride the bus to work and LOVE it! I actually look forward to the bus rides and have started reading a book. I'm a slow reader, but I'm reading and hope it will make me more intelligent. If anything I can brag that I'm reading.
3 day weekend was awesome. Saturday consisted of Adrian and I staying in bed ALL DAY LONG! We got hooked on The Deadliest Catch marathon and didn't get out of bed unless we had to use the restroom or get food, and even then, I was the declared the food gopher for the day. I did get up at 6pm to go to a friends birthday party, but resumed my slothness as soon as I got home :) I also did this on Sunday until 4pm as Adrian did workouts and worked all day :)
I'm happy that I'm saving the most money I've ever saved before. Ok, not yet, but when the next paychecks roll in, I will be. I've saved $150 in parking per month on taking the bus, I've decreased my 401k contributions just until the end of the year, and I'm NOT eating out during the week for lunch or dinner ANYMORE!
I'm going to attempt to get serious about my nutrition.. yes again. Anyone that knows me knows I struggle with this. I've paid poor Meredith, I've used friends to try and motivate me, I've done Weight Watchers, and I've even had coaches flat out tell me, if I could just lose 10-15 more pounds, I'd be as fast as I want... and I still manage to pick a Ex-long Cheese Coney, with tater tots, and a Route 44 Cherry Limeade over something healthy. Let's try it again...
Core & upper body... gonna try this too.
I feel like I'm two weeks late in my Ironman celebration. The first two weeks were a little saddening for me, and now I'm finally over it and want to bask in my IM glory. I've put the 140.6 sticker on my car and I'm genuinely excited about the improvement I'm going to make next year :)
OMG, I'm totally looking forward to Hawaii in October. Adrian and I have NEVER been on a real vacation like this before. We're both super excited!!!

I wonder who reads my blog???

2009-06-29T10:30:00.002-05:00

If you're a blogger, do you ever wonder if anyone ever reads your stuff?? Not that it matters, because it's mainly for myself and my memories.

But just curious if anyone reads this sucker??

Oh...

I registered for CdA 2010 this morning ;) I've got some unfinished business to take care of.

FUNK is gone... Fomo returning...

2009-06-26T11:02:00.001-05:00

Ha! After a few days of reflection... I've decided I want to do another Ironman. Not sure when or where, but definitely want to better my time.

Damn it...

FUNK!

2009-06-25T11:17:00.002-05:00

I posted this on the T3 forum this morning and thought I'd copy and paste for reflection:

Does anyone that did CdA have wierd negative feelings going on?? I feel like I can't get rid of the mental demons yet. Yes, I'm very proud and excited that I finished my first Ironman, but when everyone congratulates and tells me how much of an inspiration I am, I can only think of how unprepared I felt on Sunday. I know the weather sucked as much as it could possibly suck and I am grateful for pushing through it. But never in the 6 months of training, did I think I was going to have the looming fear of fighting for every ounce to not get booted from the course. From the first loop of the bike, I was in fear of not making it, and as much as I tried I'm pretty sure this took away from my experience, because I felt like I was fighting the entire time, to just make it to the next cutoff.
I see everyone excited about what's next, and I frankly can't muster up the want that everyone has. This isn't like me. I am always wanting to better my time. But for some reason, I don't with this.
Any feedback? I hate feeling this negative about something I should really be jumping for joy over. Is this normal? I feel like I'm still on a F-ing roller coaster.

I feel extremely negative about what I just accomplished. Wierd, huh? I talked to my cousin this morning on the way to work and at the end of the conversation, she said, "Wow, you sound really pessimistic about something so inspiring and awesome." That clicked with me. I know I should be on cloud nine, I know I should be gloating, but I can't keep thinking negative thoughts about my race. I know I should be proud because we did have teammates not finish and I sound ungrateful. Anyways.. just venting.

IMCDA 2009 Race Report

2009-06-23T00:11:00.004-05:00

Warning: Will probably be long and full of detail, for my own memories pleasure.

Days before the race. I flew in on Thursday with Sabrina. Steve and Dee were to be on a separate flight, but arriving an hour after us. Long story short on this minor hiccup, Dee didn't arrive till 1am that night because of a flight delay :( Spent the upcoming days, taking photos galore trying to capture the moment. I'll upload these to my Flickr account later. We went through Athlete Check In, picked up our bikes, attended practice swim, practice ride (in some sprinkles) and rode the bike course. Bike course seemed hilly, but you can never get the full effect "driving" as you do when you're actually running or cycling the day of. I remember this from California. Dee and I drove the course, but it never seemed to match when you were actually in race mode running.

Days prior were full of anxious energy, all good. I kept thinking to myself that I had spent many days wishing that the IM were the next day so I could "get it over with" and there we were the night before. I didn't sleep two nights prior to the race since my nervous energy was already peaking. Just thinking of the magnitude of what I was about to embark was sending crazy brain waves and ideas in my head.

Fast forward to race day :) The good stuff.

Woke up at 4:30am. Kinda early, but decided to jump in the shower. Steve and Dee work up at 4:45am, and we ate our pre-race breakfast. We left the house at 5:15am. I was doing the happy dance, every time I could and Steve would laugh at me. Amber flew in the night before, and she was with us. We got pretty good parking and as we were unloading our morning race bags Steve says, "Why do my bags look so full and yours don't??" Of course, wouldn't you know it. In all my happy dancing nervous energy, I prepared my water bottles for the bike and left them on the counter!!! Dee was on it, two seconds later, she was in the drivers seat heading back to the house. I was about to panic, but figured WHY?? Nothing I can do to change it. If she doesn't make it back, or I can't happen to find her, I have plenty of solid nutrition to get me through and I'll just have to suck down the aide stations gatorade :) I'm a lucky gal, and they made it back in time. Steve and I got body marked, checked our tires, made port o potty stops and the morning was off to a great start. I was able to talk to Adrian before the race and that was nice. We got dressed in our ultra sexy wetsuits, and headed down to the swim start.

Wow... all the athletes, in full on wetsuits, ear plugs, big goggles, small goggles, big guys, little girls, fat, skinny, old, young. It was a pretty neat sight. Helicopter hovering over us, spectators galore and the lake lined with ski boats, house boats and other boats to just watch was amazing. I saw a couple T3'ers, wished them luck and we were on the beach. Steve had a different plan for the swim start, so I gave him a hug, told him I'd see him as he passed me on the bike, and I left. I mosied on down closer to the front. I know I'm not a ubber fast swimmer, but I am a ubber comfortable swimmer, which I think gives me a little more confidence in the open water, in the masses as the average joe. I was a little shocked and how NOT congested the beach line up was. I assumed it'd be like a concert, where you would have to "Excuse me, coming through, excuse me" type crowded. But it wasn't. There was enough room to walk right up the edge of the water if I wanted. Everyone was pretty far spaced out. And spaced out they were. There were athletes lined up on the inside of the buoys all the way down the beach for the ones that wanted to attempt to swim outside of the masses.

Swim: 1:26:20 - 2:16 pace
Before I knew it, the blowhorn went off. I was about 5 seconds from the start. And I jumped right in. Rewind to race morning. My anxiety had my heart rate at 120. I noticed this when I put my bike computer on my bike. My heart was racing with anticipation ALL morning. Back to swim... When I got into the water, I just started swimming. I was surprised, cause normally, it takes a few minutes to get my heart and breathing into a rhythm, but since I started with it high, I had no problems getting into a breathing, comfortability place. The beginning was the washing machine action. It didn't get less crowded until the 3rd buoy. I noticed the water was WAY choppier than the practice swim. I swallowed a ton of lake, and distinctly remember hearing ringing noises in my right ear from the slapping of my head coming down on the water from the swells. A few teammates have stated 3 foot swells. Wow. Luckily, it didn't make me nervous. Everyone was swimming in it, it's not like I was singled out, so I just rolled with it. If anything, I was at an advantage because I was in a good mental place. I kept humming to myself, "Just keep swimming" from Finding Nemo. And I even got a little creative. Adrian told me about a time when he witnessed Brandon swimming and how his stroke was so strong that he actually lifted his body up in the water. So I pretended I was just THAT good of a swimmer. Yes, I know I'm not, but I was in my fairy tale. Just swimming with the swells, enjoying the moment of the swim. I got to swim without being knocked, kicked, pulled or pushed for a few minutes, and then there was the turn buoy. Talk about mass cluster muck. I think 70% of the swimmers thought the turn buoy meant, "Let's invent some new kicks underwater, pick our heads up and just hang out here." Everyone seemed to come to a standstill and it wasn't a nice scene filtering through. Got through it, and the current/swells were the worst for the back half. I made the first loop in 40 minutes. Super happy, but knew that the adrennaline from the first loop was probably the reason for a pretty decent time. Sighting was hard with all the caps in the water, and the swells, it was hard to find the buoys sometimes, which meant I'd swim off course quite a bit. It's not always safe to follow feet, cause not all feet know where they're going. I'm happy with my swim. I was estimating 1:30, so 1:26 was icing on the cake.

T1: 7:43
Something I had NOT practiced and that was changing from wet clothes to dry spandex in a rush. I immediately regretted not swimming in my tri suit and just wearing from start to finish, but soon remembered that I'd be doing this literally ALL day and comfort was the reason. A few extra minutes in transition wasn't going to make or break my day. Little did I know how close I'd be cutting everything, but that's to come. I found a seat towards the end, and was shocked to see I beat a few top T3'ers out of the water :) I got changed as fast as I could and thankfully a volunteer helped with the last half. I was off to the bike... dum da dum dum.

Bike:8:18:52, 13.47mph
Legs felt ok for the start, but I knew it was going to be a long day on the bike and this was going to make or break my IM debut. I decided to not concentrate on what my Garmin showed. No obsessing about my average speed, no obsessing about current speed, just ride what my legs felt, give it what I had and have no regrets. I made it out of town, and the hills. We had driven the course and knew there were lots, but didn't get the full concept until I actually rode it. After we got out there, it seemed like the hills were never ending. Climb, climb, climb. I wanted to take it easy so I wouldn't fry my legs for the 1st loop and be hanging on for dear life for the 2nd, but I also didn't want to take it too easy that I screw myself either. Fine line. I made it through the first loop ok. Nothing really started screwing with my head until we started coming back to town. My nutrition was like clockwork. 15 minutes, eat. Next 15 minutes, drink nutrition. Every 15 minutes, I was eating or drinking. Every two hours, Salt Stick. Time went by and I just dealt with the hills as they came, thinking to myself, "Just one more time around and I'll never have to see this hill again... forever..." Steve caught me on about mile 35, and we talked for two seconds exchanging, "Wow, these hills are tough." And then some "We're doing this, see you later on the run!" On the way back to town, it was flat. But it was longer than I remembered. There was about 10-15 miles to get back and I just remember thinking it took forever. I was also looking for a 1st loop completed sign or something and never saw it, just continued on to my 2nd loop without any noticeable "2nd loop starts here" type of sign. I started to worry. I checked my average pace, and it was 14 point something. I had high confidence going into this that I could average 15 with no problem, and the fact that loop 1, which would assumingly be my fastest, was almost near the cut off average freaked me out. I started the mental roller coaster, but remembered that for every down, there's an up. I went out for my 2nd. Saw a ton of T3'ers. The course was nice, cause it allowed for many out and backs. Yes, the scenery was nice, but it didn't take away the fact that I HAD to make the bike cut off or the last 6 months of my time, energy, heart and soul would be defeated. There were more than 2 hills that I had to stand up on, or else I wasn't moving. These were impossible for me to climb sitting down. My legs were showing signs of fatigue and I started drinking more and I increased my salt intake from 1 every 2 hours to 1 every hour. On a few of the hills, my speed going up them registered as 2.3 mph. No joke. 2.3 mph. The only thing I could think was this was bringing my average mph deathly close to the cut off average. I felt like I was in survival mode. Push, push, push. The next minute, I'd be happy, trying to not stress. The next moment, stress and fear. Then the cooler temps came, then the wind. I screamed out, "You've got to f-ing be kidding me." This was my form of prayer. I had done this on several training rides. Talking to God. I just couldn't believe this. I had a 2 minutes moment where I talked outloud, cause noone was around. It went like this.

Me: "You've got to be F-ing kidding me, right?? You give me choppy water for the swim, and it's pretty nipply out here, and now you're throwing in headwinds when I'm struggling to make a bike cut off. Wow... I can't believe this."
God: replied with headwinds.

I've heard we had 20-25 mile headwinds. The hills; in my opinion, were hard, but it was mentally tough to have the downhills hard, because you were fighting a headwind. I made several sarcastic comments to the volunteers. They'd ask, "Water, gatorade, gel?" and I yelled, "Turn off the fan!!" They just laughed, but I was really irritated. I felt like I had it hard enough to be struggling with hills and extremely slow bike averages, that why in the world did I have to deal with winds too? And then... on those out and backs where I saw my friends, I realized I was now on the other end. I was the one coming back as people were heading out, and I became grateful. Back to be positive. I could do this again. It could be worse, I could be them going out. I pushed as hard as I could and got really anxious when I hit 100. I only had 12 miles to go, but was deathly close to 8 hours. I don't have my Garmin yet to read statistics, but I knew that 8 hours was the cut off, if I had used the entire swim time. Thankfully, I had banked 30-40 minutes from my swim. It made me nervous that I had to dip into that bank. I was pretty confident that my training had gotten me to a place, where I wouldn't have to stress about the cut off, but I was wrong and here I was stressing for 4+ hours of the bike not knowing if I would make it. The ride into town was nice. I could feel myself getting emotional, but knew I wasn't in the clear until I crossed that timing mat. I've had training rides in the past where the last 5-10 miles, my legs are so shot that I literally couldn't average over 8mph on flat roads. I did the math, and figured out I had to average at least 11mph to make it in time. This gave me a boast, and I was at around 15 for the way back. I saw Dee, Sabrina, Sam, and Amber cheering for me and that started the tears. I even have an ugly cry pic of my on the bike. I got to the volunteers at the timing mat, I dismounted and I asked, "Did I make it??" and this lone guy said, "Yes!" I asked again, "Are you serious, I really made it?" and he said yes again, and I started crying. Not a tear here rolling down, I'm so proud of myself cry. This was a full on, tears streaming, holy crap, I did it let out cry. I cried for the entire walk to get my bag and in the changing tent. I quickly found an empty seat and just sat there for a full 60 seconds and cried. A volunteer came up and asked if I was ok, and I was so choked up I had to catch my breath and I told her not to worry, these were happy tears. She helped me change and get into my running clothes. I made it.

T2: 7:51
I probably could have cut off 2-3 minutes because of the cry. But I didn't care. My biggest fear was behind me. If I didn't want to touch my bike ever again, I didn't have to. I will, but I know have the option.

Run:6:25:45 - 14:43/mile
It pains me to type that. But back to the report. I came out of the changing tent to Dee, Sabrina, Sam, and Amber cheering for me. Still a little choked up, I went out to the run. I felt on fire. Garmin showed 9:00 min mile pace. I knew this wouldn't last long but figured I'd hang on as long as I could. This lasted for 2-3 minutes, and I caught a huge side stitch that made me walk. I went for a Salt Stick and remembered that I was so caught up in my crying in the tent, I forgot to take the SaltSticks from my bike jersey to my tri top. CRAP. I got nervous, but figured the aide stations would have some. I walked for a good 4-6 minutes, elongated my chest, took deep breaths to get rid of my cramp. I immediately thought I was under electrolyted and got nervous. I was even more nervous, because at both aide stations, they had no electorlyte pills at all. I figured I'd drink more and eat more to compensate. Tried to blow it off. The run slowed down and I decided I wasn't going to stare at my Garmin. So I took it off, and put it in my back pocket. It beeped at the mile, but it wasn't staring me in the face with my slow paces. I had big goals of running a 5:00 marathon. I ate 12 humble pies on Sunday. My goals were too much. Yes, I ran the long 18, 20, 22 miles long runs this pace after 80, 90, and 100 mile rides, but my legs had 20 hours of rest in between. Today, they had 7:51 seconds to recover from the longest ride I've ever done, 112. I figured, "Anyone can walk an 8 hour marathon. This is a piece of cake." I didn't realize it was a piece of humble, I'm not sure I can do this, I might not make it to the FINAL cut off, piece of pie! The first 13 were long... and slow. The 2nd lap felt even more daunting than the 2nd bike loop. I got to see all my T3 buds, BUT they were ALL on their 2nd lap and I was on my first. I saw Dee and friends at close to the turnaround. Also saw Steve a few minutes before. Each time we saw each other, we stopped to hug and said, "I can't believe we're doing this today. Good job, I'll catch you pretty soon." I also really intended on passing people during the run, meaning my T3 teammates. This didn't happen until the end.... very end. And when it did, it was survival mode. More on that later.

I started the second loop still pretty confident, but a disappointed at how deathly slow I was "running". It took me almost 3 hours to run 13 miles. Insane and a big blow to my "running" ego. I would walk here and there, but just couldn't stomach that I was walking and would start running again. I ran 95% of the entire marathon, now the pace is a different story, but I was doing one form or another of running. Whether it be running, jogging, or shuffling, I wasn't walking. Not that walking is bad, but I'm a SLOOOOOOW walker. When I walk, I walk. I noticed my paces were dropping as the night went on, and realized that when I was stopping to walk, it was considerably slower than my slow "running" pace. For instance, my last 4 miles were a 20 min mile pace. Yes, it is possible to pass people while running a 20 min mile pace. I didn't think it was humanly possible to do this, until Sunday. I shuffled an entire marathon. I had 4 hours to complete 13 hours. Still seemed like a piece of cake, but as the miles slowly, and I mean slowly went by, the time kept creeping with it. Before I knew it, I had 6 miles to go and only 1:45 to get to the finish. And this was 1 hour and 45 minutes to made the FINAL, you're an Ironman cut off. Never in all this training, did I ever think to myself that I wouldn't be able to run the marathon fast enough to make the FINAL cutoff if I made the bike cutoff. In the final, dark, literally dark hours, this fear became a reality. I ate and drank a ton, and my potty stops showed. I must have used the restroom 8-10 times during my marathon. Just urinating, but full blown, full bladder pees. In these last 6 miles, I realized it was my body not holding onto the liquids, hence me not having any electrolyte pills with me. My hands were frozen and they were already starting the tingly, crampy (retarded looking) hands that were reminiscent of my Galveston medical tent trip. At mile 16, I committed myself to NO more walking, unless it was the hill at the end of Coeur d'Alene lake. I shuffled from mile 16 on. I was in survival mode. If I stopped, I feared that I was pass out from the lack of electrolytes and the cramping I could feel coming on. Galveston was in my mind, and that frightened me. To come this far, and not make it for a stupid mistake of not packing two separate bags of Salt Sticks. I should have done one for each bag, instead of trying to remember. I didn't realize how much of a blur things would be in the moment. So I shuffled, and shuffled. I had a ton of thoughts in my head. Here are a few:

- I'm soooo that lone runner... in the dark... during all those Ironman videos that I always thought to myself, there's no way I'd be them. And was.
-I can't believe I made it this far and it's sooooo hard to get my legs to turnover.
-I can't believe I can't excel in the one sport that I thought I had in the bag.
-Pain is temporary, not making the cut off is forever.
-(I'm not going to lie) I was super sad that I thought I'd be disappointing Adrian with my near cut off time performance.
-I do enjoy glowsticks in the dark.
-Running in the dark, with no light, is fun. I thought of Meredith/Mike on their running adventure when they were training for a trail race.
-Timing mats were embarrasing me cause of how slow I had progressed all day.
-Could the weather get any worse?

The marathon had rain 90% of the time I was out there. I was freezing cold and would wrap in a mylar blanket, then get hot and shed it. Then get another mylar blanket, then shed it. I got my use out of the course, the volunteers and later the medical tent.

The last few miles of the marathon were grueling. I couldn't stop for fear that the cramping, tingling would ensue. It was happening in my hands already, and my right calf felt like it was going to Johnny Horse any minute. In the last 2 miles, my stomach started cramping. I drank cold.. yes, cold chicken broth at the last of the aide stations. It was gross cold, but I forced it down thinking the salt would help subside the cramping/tingling so I could finish.

The last half mile, Sabrina met me and walked as I was "running". We bantered back and forth, I joked with the last volunteer that finally told me truth about "You're almost done." I heard this phrase repeatedly throughout the day, and near the end, I started correcting them. "I'm not almost done, I have a marathon to go. Or I'm not almost done, I still have 56 miles on the bike AND a marathon. Or I'm not almost done, would you like to run the last 16 I have to go if you think I'm almost done??? Ok, I only used one of those phrases, but I sure thought all of those in my head. The last 3 miles, once I turned into the neighborhood were crazy lonely. There was one guy ahead of me and I caught him, but later let him pass. I didn't want to cross the finish line with a guy 5 feet behind me. Then it all clicked that I had 40 minutes to get there, and I was in fact going to cross the finish line as an Ironman. Wow. So as I was running down the final street, about 10 people came running by. Where were these people when I was alone for the last 4 miles?????? I turned around at least 4 times to tell them to have a great finish, cause I wanted the line to myself whenever I got there. The finish happened fast, in memory, not in speed. By then, my legs were just thumping one over the other. There was no running to my form, other that I wasn't locking out my hips as you do in walking. My arms were barely moving, and I was at a slow death shuffle. The final stretch I started crying. Everyone had their hands out, and all I could do was put my cramped up hand up against theirs. I couldn't stop moving forward, cause I knew my body was about to react. My face was starting to tingle amongst the tears, and I think my body just went into overload in those last 20 feet. I slapped as many hands and I could, tried to raise my arms up as high as I could, and I crossed. I did it, and I cried. 10 seconds after I said, "I need a small" for the finishers shirt, my entire face went into the tingly, locked up sensation, hands were in full cramp, and I was starting to black out. One of the volunteers grabbed me, then another, and I told them I needed medical before I blacked out. She didn't believe me, so I leaned on her, and that got her attention. My body went to the max, as I did in Galveston.

Final Time: 16:25:45

Med Tent: My body did the same exact thing it did in Galveston. My entire body tingled, my hands cramped up, and my entire face cramped so much that I could not open my mouth, nor stick out my tongue. Doc said I was hyperventilating, a tad bit hyperthermic, but they couldn't get my temperature cause they could not open my mouth, it was locked. They questioned me a ton, and I answered with mumbles and headshakes. They were the sweetest. An IV, plenty of hot blankets, and lots of care, I was the last person in the medical tent to leave. I heard Mike Reilly countdown from 5 to 17 hours, and my heart fell for the ones that didn't make the cut off that were still on the course. About an hour in the tent, I finally regained feeling.

I did it.

What I learned:
-Adrian was proud of me, no matter what my time was.
-I do still, after a days rest, DO NOT WANT TO DO ANOTHER IRONMAN.
-I think it's funny that my first Ironman happened to land on the one CdA Ironman that had the worst weather in IMCDA history, but I survived it.
-I have a new respect, that's even newer than the original respect I had for this distance and for the athletes that continue to amaze me by doing this more than once.
-I wish I had trained for another year at Olympics and Half IM's before attempting a full.
-Everything considered, I'm glad this is over with. I feel like a huge boulder has been removed from my shoulders.
-I don't think it's sunk in that I can be considered an Ironman yet...

FOMO - no more...

2009-06-16T10:06:00.002-05:00

Just a brief update on my mental status. I'm proud to announce that I no longer have any cases of FOMO :) FOMO (Fear Of Missing Out) is what got me to sign up for this crazy Ironman in the first place. No regrets though. I've learned so much more about myself through this 6 month process than I ever have while doing marathons, which is where I still feel my heart lies. Everyone on the T3 forum is planning their 2010 IM plans and it's not making me think twice about NOT signing up for another one. I feel like I have too much on my plate. This IM has drained me financially and my next major goal is to qualify for Boston. I'm going to concentrate on losing a few more pounds, getting more tone and lean, and building a core. I sound like a broken record, but I know I'll go faster if I can ever figure out what's going on in my head mentally with food.

I have a new respect for Ironman triathletes. I can't imagine doing another one next year. I'm not saying I don't ever want to, but I need to make sure I'm financially stable to do another one, because the costs of this one blindsided me. I also need to make sure I have a good feel for my job. We made a huge transistion last year, and we're finally getting on our feet. One more year, and I think I'll have a better grasp of my producers book of business and can better manage my time with training. Maybe 2011.. but Boston is first, and however long that takes me :)

A few weeks ago, I would have thought, "If the Ironman were tomorrow, I'd blow it out of the water." Last night, all my tapering fears are starting to set in. I went to swim workout last night, and was barely going. I was trying, and I was breathing like I was swimming all out, but my times were deathly slow. I did Cap Tex at a 1:47 pace, and last night I could only swim a 1:58.. for just 100 meters, in a freaking pool??? I sure hope this all changes on raceday because it thouroughly has me freaked out. I feel like I've neglected my running too much to focus on my cycling that I might have to crawl through the marathon. Sunday's 7 miles felt like forever, a marathon that day would have seemed impossible. 30 miles on Saturday on the bike felt ok, but the thought of going to 112 seemed insane. And then putting all three together?????

I know it's the taper, but I hate this freaking out mode I'm in. I feel full of anxiety, I can't wait to get to CdA to relax and hopefully find my MoJo :)

4 days and counting... wow.

Poker Update

2009-06-11T07:28:00.001-05:00

Last Wednesday, 1st place out of 30 - $310 :)
Last night, 2nd place out of 12 - $110...

I think my comeback has been announced. I might just play next Wednesday as a last hoorah night before leaving to CdA...

Poke Her... Poker :)

2009-06-10T16:31:00.004-05:00

I'm bored. Should be off work, but I'm playing poker tonight. Yep, I'm blogging about poker and not triathlons. I got to play last Wednesday and took it down, 30 guys. It was awesome. I got my first hand, hit the flop and my heart started racing, hands started shaking and had to take a few deep breaths while trying to look cool. People started going out, then all of a sudden I was at the final table, then I was in the money, then I was heads-up. $310, not too shabby.

Game starts at 7pm, can't wait.

I've come sooo far...

2009-06-05T12:41:00.004-05:00

I spent lunch IM'ing with a coworker whose cubicle is about 10 feet away, haha :) I sent her various You Tube Ironman clips, including my favorite here:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bh1yMnrby3w

She started saying how she could never do this. She can't swim, she can't run, she can't bike that long. And I started thinking. Back in 2000, my best friend and I decided we wanted to start exercising to lose weight for an Arizona trip we had planned to visit one of her friends. We'd meet at the DPS on Lamar and walk around the track there. This was also back when I used to smoke. Yes, I was awful. I'd light up after workouts sometimes cause I was a vehicular smoker. Once in the car, always had to have a cigarette in hand. This went on for awhile. Slowly but surely we'd walk one lap, then two, then three. Then we started "running" probably more of a shuffle. Same thing, let's try one lap, two laps, three.

One of her co-workers, Rolando was doing the Flamingo 5k and she registered, but I was too intimidated. I just showed up hesitant. I thought only "elite" athletes registered and did these races. We jogged, walked and did what we had to do to finish. I didn't cross the line, but it was cool seeing that "normal" people did this. After that, we committed to training for the Cap 10k. We both did that April 1, 2001.

Cap 10k - 1:21:30, 13:06 pace. I ran the whole way, isn't that funny?

I can't remember what I did after. I don't have any race results from 2001 to 2004. 2004, I started back up. I remember my goal was to run a 10:00 min mile. Just one. I started running with the free Runtex classes after work up at the Gateway Runtex. Bruno was the manager there, he now works for Nike. I was the slowest one, but I was doing it. I met Leslie in one of the classes. We became friends and she asked me to be on her running team. I remember immediately telling her, "Oh no.. I'm not elite." I don't know what it is with my mindset of setting limitations on myself cause I'm not "elite". She told me you didn't have to be elite. She wanted me to go home and browse this website.

http://www.teamjustin.com/

They were raising awareness for ALS also known as Lou Gehrig's Disease. I cried watching the interview between him and his girlfriend when they were asked about their future. They knew he only had a short amount of time, yet they made the most of it. She loved him no matter what and vice versa. At the next practice, I told her I'd attempt... ATTEMPT the Distance Challenge. If I didn't make it, I tried, but I wanted to be part of her team because it was such a great cause. I had the greatest opportunity in meeting Justin at one of the fundraisers. What a great guy. He was smiling, drinking and having a great time. Leslie and I ran our long runs at Town Lake, loop after loop after loop. This is part of the reason why I dislike running on the trail with multiple loops. I've been there and done that!

Feb 2005, I completed my first marathon in Austin. My parents, best friend, and several others came out to cheer me on. I continued with marathons, found Rogue. Got curious about triathlons and did Danskin after in 2006, the weekend after I ran my 2nd marathon in San Diego. The rest is history. Wondering if I could do the next distance has gotten me to where I am today.

15 days, and I'll be an Ironman. I'm complete the distance of all distances. I've come along way from smoking cigarettes and walking 1 mile loops back in 2000.

If I can do it, anyone can.

Flickr Account

2009-06-05T00:17:00.001-05:00

I finally got around to setting up a Flickr account since Kodak just ditched all my photos I had been storing for ump-teen years.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/adrianandpriscilla/

16 Days...

2009-06-04T17:22:00.001-05:00

Nuff said... Wow.

Update via Bullet Points

2009-05-30T13:21:00.002-05:00

Motivation still at an all time low. I think I've already begun the taper process.
No need to worry on doing extra workouts, I can barely get a few in as it is.
21 days till the Ironman, holy shit. I haven't been happier that it's around the corner.
The last month seems by far the hardest month of all of them.
Woke up this morning at 6am and realized I left my cycling shoes at home. (I stay at Adrian's on the weekends)
Rushed home to get shoes.
As I was leaving, in a rush, with car in full reverse, I failed to see a motorcycle parked and knocked it over.
Motorcycles are very heavy. I couldn't pick it back up.
Left note, with cell phone and insurance info, but as of 1:30pm, no call yet, I hope someone put it back upright.
I thought about the poor guy's reaction when he goes outside to see his motorcycle on its side for the entire Dam loop part of my ride today.
Saw half of a deer on the side of the road, yes, just half.
Tons of riders on Parmer.
"Isn't She Lovely" by Stevie Wonder was the song of the day, I hummed it and sang the only part I knew for about an hour on the bike.
Although, I'm sure it's not safe, I'm able to talk on my iPhone and ride my bike at the same time.
As comfortable as I am on the bike, I still managed to forget to unclip at the intersection of Parmer/1431 and tipped right over with all cars staring at me. I got 3 people who rolled their window down and gave a ton of thumbs up, even got a "You rock" as a car drove by that was standing still at the red light when I tipped.
Rode 80 miles by accident, and the last 20 were long and slow.
I tried to coast as much as possible once I got to Duval.
I wish I had a sign on my back that said how many miles I had ridden so when people on Jollyville that are on their 3rd mile whiz pass me, they know I'm on mile 70, and I'm really not that big of a slow ass.
Still completely 100% undecided on what I want to do after this IM. Marathons or triahlons, argh, I have a place in my heart for both now.
Top Priority for 2010 - Adrian and I are going on a REAL vacation. REAL means, no sporting event to haul bikes to, no stress of a race, just pure fun, relaxation. Maybe a cruise, maybe just going somewhere tropical where we can go on hikes, see waterfalls, go swimming, see colorful fish, and just enjoy each other. Oh, don't forget, eat good food!

I look like I know what I'm doing...

2009-05-26T22:14:00.002-05:00

Thanks Gordon!! This was during the Practiceman this past weekend.

Cap Tex 2009 - Race Report (short version)

2009-05-26T21:16:00.004-05:00

Training up to Monday has been dull. Motivation has gone to a new low, and my ego is playing wierd little games. I finally have the confidence that I'm going to be ok for IMCDA, but with this confidence has come laziness. It's not that I'm tired, although I am, but it's more that I've lost the drive to make it to all the workouts. I was hoping that Cap Tex would rejuvenate me :)

Saturday: 42 miles of S. Mopac loops followed by 13 miles of hot, long, slow miles.

Sunday: Cap Tex prep, packet pickup, bike check in, errand running.

Monday:

Swim: 26:47, swim pace of 1:47/m

Rank: 320/1327

Woke up at 4:30am, made it to the race with plenty of time. Arranged transition area. Ate Power Bar. Made it to the swim start. Kissed Adrian and got him on his way. My wave was 35 minutes later, so thankfully I had enough time to let Adrian know he was the 3rd out of the water from his wave. Swim went fine for me. I had to calm myself in the beginning because I was just excited and probably swimming too fast. I placed myself up front, because I'd rather get run over than have to swim harder to get around people. I stayed to the far right of the buoy and it worked out perfectly. For some reason, everyone swam too far out, except for one red cap. I felt like I was swimming with this red cap forever, constantly bumping into her, seeing her every 6th stroke, and it was irritating because she kept swimming into me. Finally after the half way point, I kicked it up and got in front of her. My sighting was perfect, I've gotten sooo much better with this. Only mistake that I made was I didn't see the last buoy so I started swimming to shore too early and had to turn late to round the last buoy. Other than that, I had a great swim.

T1: 3:21

Greeted and heard several T3'ers yell for me, which was awesome. I didn't have any trouble getting out of Adrian's wetsuit. We switched for this event. Running with my bike seemed like forever. I wish I knew how to run while holding my bike with just the seat, and I wish I could run faster in cycling shoes.

Bike: 1:18:42, 18.9 mph

Rank: 699/1327

I only had a goal of having a faster mph than my previous PR, which was 16.5. I had planned to get out of my saddle more, and push harder gears on the downhills. The loops went fast, and nothing too interesting other than I found myself for the first time, looking and watching for people in my age group. I noticed who was passing me, which for me I've never done, cause EVERYONE used to pass me. Not today. Mostly men and women that were younger or in my the age group above me were passing. There were 2 girls that started behind me that passed me in my age group. The last one, fought to not let go. For the 2nd & 3rd lap we'd play cat and mouse, I'd pass, then a few minutes later, she'd pass, and this went on. The last lap, she finally passed long enough that I forgot about her and lost track. I remember telling myself to remember her number so I could look at the results later to see just how bad she beat me. 421. I later found out she gained 25 seconds on the bike.

T2: 2:10

I felt pretty fluid for this stop, and decided not to do socks. I just slipped on my running shoes, grabbed my hat and race belt and was off. Saw Chris G in transition and got a shout out.

Run: 54:02, 8:42/m

Rank: 452/1342

Run felt good, 1st mile was a 9:16. I was stoked about that. It didn't feel hard, and I would for sure break 3 hours if I kept that pace. I was a little worried that I had forgotten my salt tablets in my transistion bag, so I didn't have any electrolytes other than what was in my Gu's and nutrition bottle. 2nd mile was an 8:23, holy moly. 3rd mile was freakishly slow, but it didn't feel like it, 10:19ish. After I got back on Riverside a guy passed me, but he didn't blow by me. I latched onto him and was able to run with him. I stayed with him to Congress. On my way, I asked him, "Do you have any idea what pace you're running?" He said, "No." so I dropped it and just tried to run with him as long as I could. The effort felt increased, but not something I couldn't do, until... he said, "Oh, I did just run the first loop in 22 minutes, so I bet we're doing 7:45's." and I immediately thought, "OH, hell no, I can't run that fast!" I wish he wouldn't have said anything and I probably could have stayed on his heel. I have some mental work to do, cause about 20 seconds later, I let him drop me. Finished the run strong though, the rest of the miles were under 8:30's and finished it out with a nice good stride.

Oh, and I passed 421 within the first two miles of the run :)

Extremely happy with my entire race, stoked about my new course PR.

Final Stats

2:45:06

19th in my age group out of 105 - (insane!)

445 out of 1327 total participants

Cap Tex Results

2009-05-26T16:25:00.002-05:00

Race report to follow.

1st Splash n Dash Report

2009-05-19T20:49:00.003-05:00

All I can say first is... Wow.

I signed up with this being naive thinking, "Oh, this will be a piece of cake!" 750 meters, and a 3k run. Walk in the park.

Boy oh boy, I got my ass handed to me on a silver platter! A big ole piece of humble pie!

Left work at 4:30, got to Adrian's a little after 5 to change. Put on my T3 top, then took it off, after looking in the mirror and seeing the Pillsbury dough boy, except he was blue. Decided to wear a different less form fitting top. Adrian got home with the boys, and we proceeded to Pure Austin. Checked in, and went to the swim start.

There would be two separate swim starts, men and women. There looked to be alot more women than men, and the final results showed this. Women had the option of swimming with the men since they started first. I thought about it, but then realized the few women that were, were pretty fast.

Swim
I put myself towards the front, most of the women weren't even in the water when the countdown began, and I figured that I'd rather get run over than have to swim through slower swimmers. I also assumed since this was a short swim that I would be able to swim pretty fast, it was mostly my ego too. Not gonna lie. I did get to see Amy and Laura before the swim start, and I was planning on trying to start with her, but by the time we were treading water, I had lost her. The beginning of the swim was pretty brutal, but I feel pretty comfortable in the water, and for every punch, claw or kick, I just tried to swim past it. I got caught up with one girl in a blue cap for quite a long time. She was on my right, and kept swimming into me. I had to deal with her until the first turn buoy. I could have let her by, but I was pretty adamant about seeing how fast I could swim this entire swim and wasn't about to slow down, so I kept putting up my fight. As I rounded the first bouy, I started drafting off someone, all I could see where bubbles and feet. I followed these from the first buoy to the back of the swim course. I think it was Amy because I saw Texas Iron in the water, but wasn't sure. Looking at our swim times, I'm almost positive it was her. I remember touching her feet a few times, and confirmed on the run that this was probably 99% her. Thanks Amy :) I felt pretty comfortable, although out of breath, but on the home stretch, I felt ubber fast. I felt like I was passing people like crazy. My sighting abilities have improved. I never felt like I was off course by too much :) On the last portion, the waters seemed to clear and I looked around and noticed I had skipped the very last buoy. For a split second I thought about swimming back to go around it, but I was already about 50 meters away and said screw it. Finished up the swim.

Transition
After getting out of the water, Adrian was there immediately. It felt like forever, but I had no balance to put my shoes on. Even leaning on him, I was a huge wobble butt. I stumbled a good 4 times before I finally got my shoes on. Made it to the top and started my run.

Run
I started out and was immediately breathing like crazy. People were passing me left and right and that was just pissing me off. Every time someone would pass, I'd try and latch on, but my breathing was beyond labored. They had a water station set up, which I know sounds ridiculous for a 3k run, but as soon as I got there, I stopped to walk. As I was walking, Amy came up and passed me! I thought to myself, PERFECT!!! I latched on. I screamed up ahead that I was pacing off her and we ended up running the rest together. We chatted when we could, but I was really struggling to keep my breathing steady. It was awesome having Adrian there to cheer me on. Brandon Marsh was there too, and a few other friends. Pretty cool to have a little cheering section. 2nd loop seemed a bit easier, but felt super long. I could not get my breathing to slow down, and I really felt like I was running at least 8:00's. I felt like my effort was insanely high. 3rd loop was just about hanging on to Amy. The chit chat was none, and towards the end it was taking everything I had to hang on. She slowly started drifting away, until a girl tried to pass me, and I just couldn't let it happen, especially not in front of Adrian. I kicked it in and didn't let her get by. I almost caught up to Amy, but missed it by 1 second. It would have been nice to keep up with her the whole time, but I was thankful to have her to run with :) A big huge thanks to her for being there whether she wanted to or not :)

Final Statistics, and quite shocking...
Time: 31:51
Swim Rank: 46
Swim pace: 1:51 (Wow, swimming PR!)
Run lap 1: 6:15 (10:25/m pace)
Run lap 2: 6:05 (10:08/m pace)
Run lap 3: 5:40 (9:27/m pace)
Overall finish: 58th out of 185
Gender finish: 15th out of 113 - HOLY SHIT! (Correction, 20th woman, 15th not including the women that placed Top 5)

I can't wait to get my running speed back. When I originally saw my running pace, I was upset. How in the world can I run marathons at a faster pace, but given 1.8 miles, I can't run for shit. Doesn't make sense, but in the few words I had with Amy, there's something different with going from swimming to running. Also talking to Adrian, he said the entire event is made to go all out, and I felt it. I'm extremely disappointed with my 10:00 min average, but it was a great and humbling experience. Looking forward to going back and doing better.

Bulletpoint Updates :)

2009-05-19T12:15:00.003-05:00

Adrian finished 2nd overall, 1st in his age group at Xterra Canyon Lake race. He now has 140 of the 150 points he needs to qualify for Nationals. He was behind the leader by only 1:09.
Adrian and I were rearended on Saturday and it's tweaked my back!! Mostly sore, but I did have sharp pain down my leg on Sunday afternoon. Argh... just what I need before the Ironman.
Ironman training is going, not very motivated, and I'm not going to lie. My workouts have been sub par lately.
I'm excited about the next adventure with Rogue after IM is over.
Trying to build up to doing as many REAL pushups as I can before July.
Ironman is 32 days away, and I'm excited!
A little bummed that I only have 2 more paychecks coming until Ironman, wow, the time flew fast.
I'm looking forward to the lower budget "running only" budget after IM.
I cleaned my entire condo this morning before work.
I'm really looking forward to my first Splash and Dash tonight!!
Super excited about this weekends workouts... T3's Practiceman and Cap Tex :)

20 Very Random Thoughts

2009-05-14T11:28:00.002-05:00

I hate it that I just burned my 100 calorie pack of popcorn and having to sort through the burned pieces is slowing the rate at which I can consume my lunch.
I'm grateful for the opportunity to train and complete my first IM. Despite all the whining I feel like I've been doing lately, I really am excited.
I'm looking forward to this weekend, not because of the training, but because I'll be able to support Adrian in a race. I love running around tracking where he is and cheering for him, I'm extremely proud to be his girlfriend.
My cats give me geniune happiness during the week. I woke up this morning to a big black furry face staring at me wondering when it was time to wake up.
Putting the cat box outside on my back patio was the best idea ever!! Now I just need to figure out what to do when it rains this weekend.
Helen from the Biggest Loser only weighing 117 has prompted me to take my nutrition seriously.. yes yet again. If she can do it, I can do it. Can you imagine how fast I could run if I weighed 117 pounds.
Friends change, but friends will always be friends :)
I miss my BFDee. I miss running with that fart fool that can't ever do a run without getting US lost. I miss the giggles about random things we see. I drove down to Manchaca on Mother's day and thought about the one run we did, where I knew we were going the wrong way, but was too afraid to tell her, so we ran to Manchaca :)
I catch myself calling random people FOOL, that don't understand and I have to apologize.
I enjoy swimming more than I ever thought I would.
I wish I were rich enough and had enough time to train with both Rogue and T3 simultaneously.
I'm glad I went to the doctor about my knee, looks like I'm weak on my right side.
I'm looking forward to Grey's Anatomy and The Office tonight, and my day OFF to try and regroup my sanity.
I'm oddly scared of crossing the finish line in CdA. I'm afraid I'll love the moment too much to want to do this again.
I can't wait to make the bike cutoff and run a marathon on June 21st.
I can't wait to call Adrian after the race and let him know I'm an Ironman.
I wish I could buy the house next door to Adrian. That would be the bestest thing ever. I could have my own place, my own space, and we could still be together without the inconvenience of having two places 10 miles away from each other, and I wouldnt' have to stress about my kitties.
I genuinely respect the people on my team that have done more than 1 Ironman. It seems unreal to have to do this again knowing how difficult it is.
I wish I had bigger boobs.
I wish I had more of a butt.

Updates, updates, updates...

2009-05-11T21:31:00.002-05:00

Last weekend, I had the pleasure of running with my Dee. Surprised her at Rogue at 6am (Eek, forgot what it was like to wake up that early!!) We ran 10 miles and had a blast! Tons of farting, tons of "Fool!", and tons of giggles. I miss just running.

The rest of the week....
Sunday: I rested. Adrian finished 4th overal at the Xterra Ruston :) So I decided to celebrate with him and do NOTHING :) Slept in, ate a good breakfast and rested and relaxed.
Monday: Swim class, rocked it. Got to lead the swim lane for half the class.
Tuesday: OFF
Wednesday: OFF
Thursday: OFF
Friday: 4,000 meter swim. No wetsuit again.

Splits:

4:26
4:37
4:43
4:32
4:43
4:32
4:38
4:29
4:35
4:23
4:42
4:31
4:44
9:16 - whoops! this is for 400
4:38
4:48
4:35
4:47
4:19
Total 1:32:07 (Yay!!)

Saturday: I rode my first century. 104.5 miles. Included the Dam loop, then out Parmer to the end, then back to the intersection and back out again, then back to town. Did Jollyville out and back to make sure I hit 100, then home to Adrian's :) Average 14.7 mph riding time :) 7 hours and 10 minutes, riding time :) I am feeling more secure now about not getting kicked off the course :) :) :) :)

Sunday: Met Steve and ran 20 :) Good stuff. Ran the whole time, except for water stops, felt amazingly well, until the last mile.

One more hard week and we're smooth sailing :)

Cute Animation

2009-05-04T16:37:00.000-05:00

I got this off the T3 forum, thanks Jim!

Check it out, too cute!

http://www.onwards.tv/

After IM...

2009-05-01T20:47:00.004-05:00

There's been lots of talk regarding what everyone is doing after the Ironman. I've gone back and forth in my mind about what I want to do. At first, I thought I wanted to continue on with this tri stuff, after having such a great race in Galveston. Now that more time has gone by, I've been thinking I don't want to do anything. I don't want to be a part of any training group, just relax and be normal. I miss playing poker, I miss running with my Dee, and I miss being able to work late, or just go home, or have a weekday evening where I don't have to be somewhere. I just want to be. Then because of a certain someone's comments in a past thread, I got to reminiscing. Oh my gosh... the fun I had with Rogue.

I've grown to love T3 and all the teammates, but there's just something different about running. The stories, the adventures and the camraderie that Rogue gave me was priceless. I can't remember a long run where Dee and I didn't get lost. Where we didn't fart so much that our stomach's hurt from all the laughter. The giggles we had from running aimlessly, and most importantly the pure joy and genuine love we had. We not only shared laughs, giggles, and farts, but that crazy fool got me through some hard times in my life at the time. I've come to miss these crazy runs with her.

I'll always be a T3'er now and they have a special place in my heart, but I think I want to get back to running. After seeing so many friends have such awesome races in Boston, that's my next goal. I want to make it to Boston. Reading Dionn's race report brought me to tears. Reading Mike's race report brought me to tears, and I can only daydream about how freaking awesome it would be there myself. Then I thought, why daydream, let's make this happen.

So that's my next goal. Maybe not immediately after CdA, but definitely in 2010, that's my mission. I want to go to Boston. I know I can do it. 3:40 seems crazy right now, but I know I can do it, I know it. Now let's just make it happen.

But for now... I need to stay in IM mode. Michelle posted on the forum, "CdA is next month." Holy shit, she's right. June 21st will be here before I know it. I'm excited and ready. I'm a little nervous about the bike and I'm super nervous about the emotion that will go through me at the finish, but I'm ready to get to the start line. It's gonna be amazing...

(PS, Mike, you're gonna have to wait for more FOOL shout outs till after June 21st, be patient... FOOL!)

2 out of 3

2009-05-01T20:36:00.004-05:00

Tonight was a big night :) I went to Barton Springs and went into the swim on a mission. Last Friday, I heard the script was to swim 4000 meters. It just sounded ridiculous hearing it last weekend. The thought of swimming FARTHER than 2.4 miles seemed insane. I took Tuesday off and ended up taking Thursday off too, because of work, and just laziness.

I got to Barton Springs, and opted to swim without a wetsuit. For 1, I didn't have it with me, and 2, I wanted to see if I could do it without. Before I got into the water, I made it a point to commit to swimming 10 laps without stopping. I warmed up pretty fast and got into a rhythm. Around the 6th, 7th, and 8th laps, I was getting tired, but still trucking along. I noticed my times were slowing and was ok with it, until a girl not wearing a wetsuit passed me! I tried to kick it into gear and draft off her, but she was overall faster. I reminded myself I was 8 laps into a swim and for all I knew she had just started fresh. I later realized that kicking a little harder didn't take that much energy and it was ok to keep the pace up.

Here are my splits :)

4:18
4:21
4:31
4:32
4:39
4:29
4:35
4:33
4:51
4:43
4:48
4:37
4:46
4:39
4:53
4:30
4:40
4:29
4:39
4:27

Total time: 1:32:09

I'm figuring with the wetsuit, it will make me faster. The fact that I swam a tad bit OVER the 2.4 will bank me some time, but I know the congestion will take away. So if I can swim the 2.4 in 1:30, I'd be ecstatic!! This would buy me 50 additional minutes that I much need on that damn bike.

I think if I keep with my swim workouts, and keep with my long swims, I'm 100% sure I've got it in me to do the swim.

If and when I make it to the run, I'm 100% positive I've got the marathon in the bag. I don't know my time, and I've got high expectations to run a decent marathon, but even if I have to walk the whole damn thing, I know I can do it.

Now if I could just get the confidence on the bike, I'd be golden. Still have a few more weeks to build. Looking forward to a down weekend :) 75 miles and 9 miles running, piece of cake :)

Weekend Update

2009-04-27T20:00:00.002-05:00

Friday - Swam 1 mile at Barton Springs. Should have swam farther, but just wasn't feeling it.

Saturday - Attempte to ride 100+, but made the stupid mistake of forgetting to charge my Garmin. I started at Adrians, went south on 360, down on Bee Caves, up 620 to Anderson Mill. Instead of going out to Parmer, I thought I would add some miles, so I went through the neighborhoods to get to Jollyville. I went down and back and then went to Parmer via Duval/Amherst. I rode down Parmer and my Garmin died at mile 64. I called Adrian and he said to go ahead and go all the way down. I went to the very end. First time doing that :) I came all the way back and was for sure I hit 100. I mapped it out, and it only came out to 95 and some change. ARGH!!! Oh well, the good in it, is it's farther than my longest ride which was the weekend before 90. It took me 8 hours. I still feel nervous about the bike cutoff, but with the weather conditions we've been having, and all the stop lights and waiting on trains, I should be fine. I'm also counting on banking at least 50 minutes from the swim. Good day.

Sunday - met the girls to run 18 miles. Good stuff. I felt strong in the beginning, but got pretty fatigued as the run progressed. I've been learning my run/walk, but am thinking about going back to running without stopping. I know the likelyhood of walking during the Ironman will be high, but I'd like to run as long as I can without having to stop. We'll see.

Monday - Called in "exhausted" to work. Used a sick day to relax. Got to sleep in. I made Adrian and I a yummy breakfast, and we went to the T3 swim class at lunch time. I lead my lane with two other guys and had a good workout. Afterwards, Adrian and I spent the day shopping. Came home took a nap, and now we're watching tv with all three doggies on the couch. A very awesome weekend indeed :)

Another Breakthrough

2009-04-24T16:03:00.002-05:00

I took two days off, for no apparent reason. I took Tuesday off, cause that was going to be my new day to take off since I'm swimming at Barton Springs on Friday and that used to be my day off. It was odd. I found myself bored and wishing that I had gone to core/spin. In any case, I managed, did laundry, spent time with my cats, and watched a ton of recorded shows :) Wednesday, I just felt tired, so went home and did the same.

Thursday, I was excited to go to spin. Chrissie ended up setting her bike up behind me, so that made me nervous the entire spin class. If I wasn't on cadence or my heels weren't down, I was paranoid that she was thinking I was a complete idiot. Thankfully, she didn't yell at me.

My breakthrough...

During core class I did my FIRST ever real pushup. Ok, I didn't go all the way down, but I went down far enough that it took me a good 1-2 seconds to get back up. I could only do 4-5 over the course of the 30 minute core class, and each one got shorter and shorter. My improvement is that I switched from girl pushups on my knees to full on real pushups on my toes. I was waiting for Mo to yell at my slow/weak self, but thankfully he didn't. I did switch it up and go to girl pushups once, then decided I'm done with those. I'd rather look like a weakling and get stronger doing the real ones, then to do the girl ones. I have graduated :)

Looking forward to getting stronger. If I can build enough strength, I might try that 100 push up challenge that everyone did a few months ago :)

Workout Update and Weekend Happiness :)

2009-04-20T16:43:00.004-05:00

Tues - April 14th, made it to spin and core.

Wed - April 15th - ran a little over 6, got to run with Maggie, yay! then made it to swim class. Sabrina and I raced each other when everyone was done and we swam a 1:43 for 100 meters :) I love gauging our swimming progress. Good class. I'm no longer being threatened by the covering of the swimming pool. 1 - because they aren't covering it anymore, 2 - most importantly, I'm finally fast enough to complete the T1 workouts :)

Thur - April 16th - Spin and core again, good job, Me. VERY hard class for me.

Fri - April 17th - Planned to swim at BS, but the weather was ugly so I had a day off.

Sat - April 18th - Ran with Katy for 21 miles. We did a Rogue course and there were plenty of hills to keep it interesting. We did our own water stops and had a great time getting to know each other.

Sun - April 19th - 90.17 mile bike. Longest bike of my life. 1:00 hour run. No time splits. I had a Garmin, but didnt' want to stress myself out with pace, so just ran based on time. I was pretty exhausted by that time. I still have the most fun running. It took about 20 minutes before I was in my comfort zone and my legs were fine :) Tired and sore, but I've got the mental capacity to fight anything on the run. It's my happy place :) I could have run longer if I needed to. Thanks to Blythe for giving me a no frills running route. Last time I ran from Kiker I went right, and into the neighborhoods to get lost. I like the out/back on La Crosse way better!!! Big thanks to Katy, and Erin and the rest of the girls that were cheering me on as I went out for my run.

Lessons Learned This Week: One of my friends said, "Quality over Quantity". I think I'm going to take this to heart and use this for the rest of the training. I've been pretty paranoid the closer CdA gets with getting all my workouts in. I do the same thing over and over, unless work makes me miss. Mon/Wed, I run, then swim. Tues/Thur, I core then spin, and sometimes run. Friday, I swim long, then Sat, bike long, Sunday run long. This week, having kept to my routine, I noticed I was half assing the spin classes. This is where I need the most work. I'm going to start cutting back on doing these, and instead, use the one that I go to and really do them right. Hit all the cadences, and keep up with the coaching. No more stopping, easier shifting or slower cadences.

Despite my hatred for the tough weather conditions, some little bird keeps telling me that there's NO way CdA weather could be worse than what we've been experiencing. I need to keep to my positive mantras and keep plugging along. Sunday was a great day. I might have made one too many stops, but will resolve that with next weekends 100 miler. I will also embrace whatever conditions are thrown at me and conquer :)

Big thanks to all the T3'ers that cheer me on. Seems to be that I have a pretty big cheering crowd and I love it!

Pre-week post. Monday, April 20th. Spent almost the ENTIRE day at work tracking Boston peeps, updating and commenting on Facebook. Rest of the week, I need to get some work done :)

Great job in Boston, Rogue Peeps!!!

Boo-yah!!!

2009-04-13T21:56:00.003-05:00

Normally, I don't have enough time or energy to post during the week, but I'm on such a high that I figured a few minutes to type a post was necessary. And I'm not going to lie, I'm on cloud nine and feel like documenting the moment :)

Workday was long. Got alot done at work, but it was tiring. Legs were bothering me all day. Every time I got up to get something, I felt the soreness. Every time I sat on the toilet to pee, my hamstrings yelled out as I sat. (Yes, TMI) I was oddly more hungry today than normal. Decided to eat a Healthy Choice steamer around 4:00pm. I decided, since my legs were still pretty sore from the weekends events, that I'd skip my 3-5 mile easy run and just go straight to swim.

I arrived at swim around 5:45, went to the restroom, changed into my swim suit and went back to the car. I set my iPhone to go off at 6:55, rolled down the front windows and was OUT! The breeze was awesome and I was asleep. I never have problems falling asleep or sleeping. Alarm went off, even missed a call caues I was out, and went up to swim. Legs still felt pretty sore and thought that swim would be long and hard.

Chrissie had me and a few others in lane 1. Not because I was demoted, but that was the only lane doing the T1 exercise.

Long story short, I felt fine in the water after a few minutes. I was able to keep up and when we got to the 6 x 100's, gradually increasing speed, something wierd happened. Ever since I read Brandon Marsh's blog where he said, "To swim faster, you have to swim faster. To bike faster, you have to bike faster. To run faster, you have to run faster." I've used that as my new mantra. I say it all the time during training now. When it burns, when it hurts, when I don't think I can go any longer, I say this to myself. I used it tonight during swim class. To swim faster, I've got to swim faster. We got to the last 100, and gave it my all. Started out too fast on purpose and just for grins, thought I'd see how long I could hold it.

HOLY SHIT! 1:49. I remember in the beginning when I would swim 2:15 and slower thinking, how in the hell do these fools swim faster?? 2:00 was a goal. Broke that about a month ago, and that's always been my main goal. Get under 2:00 and I was having a good day. Slowly but surely, my goal keeps getting faster. Up until tonight, it was, "I wonder if I can break 1:55." I did. So I learned today, that no matter how long you do this stuff, it's always a learning experience. I thought with tired legs, that I might have needed an OFF day, but swimming was the best medicine. No more missing Monday night swims, it seemed to be a breath of fresh air for my legs.

My new mantra: To swim faster, you have to swim faster.... to ride faster, you have to ride faster... to run faster, you have to run faster. So simple, yet it works!

Tough, but good weekend.

2009-04-13T11:19:00.004-05:00

Wednesday & Thursday, April 8th & 9th - OFF days. For one reason or another, I took two days off. It was nice. I miss going home, after work, relaxing, doing laundry, hanging out with the cats, and just not having to be somewhere doing something!

Friday, April 10th - I had the day off and was planning on doing the 56 mile CdA bike course on the Computrainer with Shawnda at 1pm. I stayed up late on Thursday watching poker shows, Oprah's, and reality shows. I was actually bored for awhile. I slept in, and that was great. Did some more things around the house, and packed my stuff to head to Adrian's. My bike was there. Mo called at noon, and accidentally overbooked me, so Sabrina and I cancelled. Instead, I met Sabrina and Amber at Barton Springs for a swim. Swim #2 in my wetsuit, and I'm shocked.

We swam one mile - 34:19. I argued with Sabrina that we still had one more lap to go, but she argued back enough to make me look at my watch. 8 laps, starting the 9th, she was right. We swam a mile. HOLY CRAP! I've never in my life swam that fast before. We took about a 5 minute break, then decided to do a 2nd mile. 34:29. Thank you new wetsuit :)

Saturday, April 11th - 75 mile bike ride. Met with T3, and pushed pushed pushed. I can't ever hang on or catch up to the groups that initially pass me, because it takes me some time to warm up and get into my rhythm. Once we got to Arboretum, Blythe passed me and I latched on. I hung on for dear life and was able to draft off her down Jollyville, until we got to Parmer. I was pretty tired. Once we turned onto Parmer, I tried to latch onto Katy and Jane, but they slowly crept away and I got caught at a light. Damn light! I think pushing myself to draft off the faster people will help me, and yesterday proved to be right. I rode with Sabrina till about 7-8 miles before the turnaround and she turned early and I was alone for the rest of the ride. Steve caught me after having mechancial problems and I tried to draft off him for about 5 minutes, but he was just too fast. I made it back to Amherst to turn on Duval and I was spent. Legs had it by then, and it was just survival getting back to my car. When I got to 360, I checked my average. 14.5 :) Highest average since training started. All of that pushing when I was attempting to draft off the faster people helped. My average dropped to 14.1 just climbing 360, but I didn't care. I was happy FINALLY be in the 14's!!!

Last time we did this ride, it took me 6.5 hours. Saturday, it took me 5:10 :) YAY!!! Call me crazy, but I'm looking forward to next weekend's 90 miler with 1 hour brick.

Sunday, April 12th - EASTER. I slept in. It was nice. I woke up with Adrian at 7am, he got up and got moving around and I went back to sleep till 10:30am. Bed all to myself. Boyfriend and all three dogs left me alone. I got on the forum and crashed the girls run at noon. My legs were TIRED from pushing on Saturday, but I managed to hang with them for 14 miles. The last 2 miles were literally a crawl. Good crawl. No more negativity, this is nothing but positive from here on out. I couldn't keep up, so I decided to walk it out. At first, I stopped my Garmin, but then realized, I needed to practice my walking speed. I couldn't walk faster than a 20 min mile. Yes, a 20 min mile. I was toast. Good lesson learned today. I assumed that during the Ironman I'd walk 16:00 min miles, no problem. Today I learned a 16:00 mile when you're plum tired, is hard to do. I need to work on my walking speed :) A big shout out goes to Rhonda, Katy and Vegas for helping me get through the 16 miles. I couldn't and wouldn't have done it without ya'll. I'm happy to have made these awesome friends!!!

Another side note, is that I think stopping for me is a bad thing. I think I need to run as long as I can without stopping before resorting to walking. Once I walk, it makes it too hard to resume the running. This is another art that I haven't conquered.

This week, I'm going to stick to my workouts like clockwork if I can help it. I'm exhausted today. Everything is still sore, despite my ice bath on Sunday, but I'm going to force myself to run at least 3 miles after work before swim class.

I CAN DO THIS :)

Longhorn Half Ironman Race Reportn - Warning 4 pages long in Word :)

2009-04-07T15:38:00.001-05:00

Race Report for Galveston Half Ironman
1.2 mile swim, 56 mile bike, 13.1 mile run
April 5, 2009

What a race. Rewind a few months. I signed up for Ironman Couer d’Alene with Sabrina and Steve and the past few months of training leading up to this Half Ironman have been mentally and physically exhausting. The roller coaster of emotions have been extreme, and I’ve said this time after time, but this IS the most mentally exhausting thing I’ve ever attempted in my 5-6 years of marathons and triathlons. Weekends have been filled with crying and mentally, I was starting to come to the conclusion that I’ve bitten off more than I could chew with trying to complete a full Ironman.

I went into this race knowing that I was going to race it. If I couldn’t cut it on the bike for a half on FLAT FLAT ground, there’s no way I could attempt to make the bike cutoff in Idaho in June for the full. Most of my teammates went into this race as a training day, because this isn’t our A race, but I knew in my heart, I needed to leave it out there as a gauge to myself on where I stood physically.

Adrian and I drove the motorhome down on Friday morning. Garmin cadence sensors wreaked havoc on Adrian’s mental state the entire afternoon before our race. I used mine, but mainly only during spin class and after long rides to see where my cadence average was. Adrian depended on his to gauge his output. He switched between our two cadence sensors, THREE (yes, we have four between the two of us) Garmin’s. Nothing seemed to work. It would work, then it wouldn’t. We ate our leftover spaghetti, headed to bed at a decent hour and were ready to race.

We woke up at 5am, thanks to our new pup, Riley. Made it to transition with more than enough time to spare. Got to talk with tons of T3’er’s, tons of friends, and before we knew it, we were down in our wetsuits waiting for our swim waves to go.

Swim: 41:34 at a 2:09 pace
I don’t like the saltwater, just tastes nasty. The water was cold, but this was my first triathlon to swim in a real wetsuit, so the temperature didn’t bother me. I’m used to swimming at Barton Springs without a wetsuit, so I was fine. Got to chat it up with the girls in the water, and the gun went off. I found a rhythm pretty fast, but I had done NO sighting practice and this was my downfall. Every single time I looked up I was swimming inside the buoys. I was constantly having to correct my path. I realized about half way, that my swimming form was crap. I found myself trying to go back to the windmill action, and slowed down my stroke to get the form back. Swim seemed long, but I’m super happy with my time. My previous swim PR was 45 minutes, so I’ll take the new PR. I know I can improve which makes me happy.

T1: 2:39
I couldn’t unzip the wetsuit, so that ate up about 20 seconds of time trying to tug on it. The wetsuit strippers were awesome!! I jogged the whole way, even rushed so fast, that I made the decision to screw the socks.

Bike: 3:09:51 – 17.7mph
HOLY CRAP! My previous long rides have always been UNDER 14 miles per hour. I only had ONE ride where I averaged 13.1 mph. In order to not get thrown off the IM bike course, I need to ride 13.4. This has been my struggle the entire training season. I started off and felt comfortable. My Garmin would read 15, 16, 17.. and I was ecstatic. I was passing people, which is sooooo not the norm for me, and I was feeling good. About 30 minutes into the ride, my groin was cramping up. I’ve NEVER had this problem, but it was very weird. The more I pedaled, I could just feel it getting more tense and tense, and had to stop pedaling to relax. Very weird, and it made me very nervous this early into the bike, that this was happening. Thankfully, I just spun through it and it went away. I’m not sure what the cause was or why it happened. I counted my cadence with my stop watch, and I was right at 100. I made a make or break decision and decided to go a few gears harder and do a slower cadence. I wanted and needed to be faster. By the time I had gotten to the first turn around section, I started counting off the pro’s and fast guys. 1…2….3….4…21…22…23… I was looking for Adrian. He was in 45th place, and I hollered as loud as I could to the other side of the road. He was on his way back and I was just getting to the end. Ride was great. I had my Garmin on pace, so I never knew my average, which made it even better. Ignorance is bliss, and I think mentally, this is better for myself. My overall goal was to average 14mph. I would have crapped my pants for 15, and the fact that I did 17.7 means I should still be cleaning myself up! I’m super happy. Extremely happy.

T2: 2:07
I took a little more time here to put the socks on for running. I always get such bad blisters, I didn’t’ want anything to hold me back. I need to get some tri shoelaces, as well.

Run: 2:01:56 – 9:18m
This is my strong sport. I’m by no means fast when compared to others that just run, but this is where my heart lies. Mentally, I know I can’t fail here. My first mile was an 8:39, wow. The weird part was that I didn’t even feel like I was running that fast. I just tried to hold a decent pace the entire time. I started going back and forth with another T3’er and that was perfect for the first half. I think her name was Jill. I looked up her time, and she averaged 8:38’s for the entire run, so I think it was her. She was perfect. I tried to stay as close as I could to her. I’d pass her occasionally at a water stop, and she’s reel me back in. We played cat and mouse for the entire first 6 miles. She slowly inched away and once I got to the halfway point, I started calculating my finishing time. I quickly realized that if I didn’t crater, held the pace I was doing, I could finish sub 6:00. This was so incredibly CRAZY! I told Adrian I’d be happy with anything in the 7:00’s, ecstatic if I could break 7:00, but breaking 6:00 or coming anywhere close to a fast 6:00 was just incomprehensible, until this moment. Jill had already gotten out of eyesight, but thankfully I had my Dee out there cheering for me. She would run with me for a few seconds, until I got paranoid that I’d get a penalty while she was talking up a storm with me. You have to remember, this girl is FAST, and she was just hooting and hollering while jogging with me. She made all the difference in the world, cause she was never in the same place twice, so I never knew when to expect her, and she kept my attention from the pain cause I was constantly looking for them fine legs!!

Adrian has a motto when he races, and I used it when I started my 3rd loop. It’s only a 10k, I can do this in my sleep. It’s only an hour of my time. I started remembering soulbusters from Team Rogue training, remembered all the hard long runs, and when it came down to it, it was only 6-7 miles to go. I can do this in my sleep. Running is my thing, I can do this. I finished my 3rd loop, and was really dreading not seeing Adrian out there for me. We had agreed it would take me 7 hours, so he was going to go back to the motorhome to let the boys out, and be at the finish. We both hadn’t planned for me to finish in 6, so I was bummed he wouldn’t be there. Lo and behold, I started my last loop and there he was. Screaming his head off. I love this man, he inspires me in more ways than I can ever comprehend. He truly makes me want to be a better athlete. I got a little spunk when I saw him, and I turned the corner and realized I was going to have to dig deep to keep my pace under 10:00 min miles. The out and backs, the turns, the loops within loops were starting to get to me. It was now only 3 miles to go. 30 minutes of running, I reached in and dug! My hands/finger always do this weird crampy thing at the ends of marathons or really long runs. Never knew why, but after10-15 minutes of shaking and massaging them out they’re fine. I realized when I was on my last loop, they started early. No problem, just kept on running.

I remember seeing the 11 mile marker and I said outloud, “2.1 miles, 2.1 miles, I can do this. This is MY race, this is my day. Don’t blow it in the last 2.1 miles.” I got to see my other husband Steve and he gave me some encouraging words. He was “training” and I was racing, so this was abnormal to pass him. Every time I looked down at my Garmin, the pace was slower and slower, but I felt like I was pushing harder and harder. The bonk factor, ugh. I just kept talking to myself over and over. I can do this, I can do this, this is my day, my race. If you can imagine this with my hands doing the crampy thing, I’m sure I looked special. The last mile I had, Maggie had caught up to me, and she pulled me the rest of the way. She said to take it home and go strong! I couldn’t have made it through that last mile without her encouraging words. It was awesome. I was 110% out of my comfort zone. I sprinted with everything I had left and heard and saw Adrian screaming at the top of his lungs for me. I did it J

Finish Time: 5:58:08

Medical Tent Story
Once I crossed the finish line, I was panting, which is normal. My hands were in full crampy style, which I was used to, but I was spent. I bent over to catch my breath, and the tingly sensation in my hands got worse. I walked over to the chip return, and just couldn’t catch my breath and then everything started tingling. If I moved, I thought my entire legs were going to cramp, so I just stood there bent over trying to regain some composure. Adrian came to my rescue, and got underneath my right shoulder and started making me walk to the medical tent. I kept wanting to relax, but the longer we waited the more woozie I felt and the tingling spread. Logan came over and helped since Adrian was starting to cramp himself. He finished in 4:52, and found out later, he also required an IV after the race for the first time, so he didn’t have the strength to hold my butt up. They got me to a cot, and my legs were cramped up, feet were, and my face was full on tingly, so much that I couldn’t open my mouth. They gave me an IV and said I was dehydrated and hyperventilating. They told me to control my breathing. They wrapped me in blankets, Adrian later got me some heating packs, and it just took time for my body to get back to normal. Lots of T3’er’s checked on me, and Adrian rubbed and loved on me the entire time. Great stuff. I’d go back and do it all over again.

Lessons Learned
- I can push a little further when I think I’ve pushed as far as I can
- Don’t forget the Endurolytes in my transition bag
- Drink more water on the run course, even if it means walking for a second to get it down
- Control my breathing when I feel the tingly sensation
- Remember that good race karma comes back to you. I think I cheered for more people that were passing me and lapping me than I did for other teammates. It came around full circle.

First Medical Tent Trip

2009-04-06T22:11:00.003-05:00

My first medical tent trip :) Thanks Adrian & T3er's for taking awesome care of me!!!

Details to come...

Quick Stats

2009-04-06T22:03:00.003-05:00

Race report to follow.

2nd Half IM (1st in 2006)

Time: 5:58:07
353 out of 609 - overall
19 out of 32 - age group
81 out of 196 - females

Splits
Swim: 41:34 - 2:09/m pace
T1: 2:39
Bike: 3:09:51/ 17.7 mph
T2: 2:07
Run: 2:01:56/ 9:18m

I ain't doin' this shit again :)

2009-03-30T10:08:00.004-05:00

I say that with a smile, but in all honesty, I can't do this again. Ironman training that is. I think I bit off more than I could chew, but am trying my darnest to stick with it and gut it out. I'm enjoying myself, and know I'll be stronger later for it, but this is just mentally grueling!!! I'll repeat myself... I AIN'T DOIN' THIS SHIT AGAIN!!! :) Yes, I say that with a smile :)

Just a quick update...

I had big hopes for this weekend. It was to be my first 100 mile ride. I set out, despite all the changing of plans from most T3'ers to go to Salado and do the ride. I woke up, bundled up, and got out there. Started at 8am with everyone, and things were difficult but good. I came across some mental demons that told me the wind was too much and I needed to turn around, but didn't. I finally found my happy place. I was barely moving, and at some points, I thought the wind was literally going to push me right over, but kept chugging along. I passed all the rest stops, until I came to the one at about mile 45. I stopped to re-fill my bottles, take a pee break, talk to some fellow T3'ers. That was the best part. I wasn't THAT slow that I could still see T3'ers in front of me and catch them at the rest stops, so I was delighted. From the start, I decided not to set my Garmin on Avg Pace, because I knew it would just torment me. I started back out on the course with the intention of not stopping till I finished.

About 2 minutes into it, all I heard was a loud, clank, clunk, clankity. Scared me, immediately came to a stop and looked around. The guy behind me (yes, I said behind, which is a rarity) said my bottle cages fell off. Both bolts had completely fallen off and there I was with two FULL tall J&A bottles, the entire rear hydration system, and pockets too full to stuff anything. I decided to call it a day. Called a friend, who called the fire station and they picked me up. 47 miles :(

I attempted to do it again on Sunday, but my legs were tired from fighting the wind and mentally I just wasn't in the place I needed to be. I got in 58, thanks to Sabrina and Amber and called it a day. I was going to go swim or run, but just couldn't muster up the energy. It saddens me that I can't follow in my teammates footsteps, cause 99% of them all got in their first 100 miler, but I'll wait till next time. Good weekend. I was pooped. I am pooped.

HUGE CONGRATULATIONS to all the T3'er's that got the 100 miles in AND the 20 mile run. You fools inspire me to keep it going :)

I'm still really looking forward to Galveston and the mini-vacation Adrian and I are going to make out of it. We're taking the motorhome with all the boys and the Jeep. I took off Friday and Monday from work to relax. It should be fun!! Adrian's first half Ironman and my 2nd. Looking forward to a great race and a relaxing weekend with the boyfriend and dogs :) This will be Riley's first trip in the motorhome :)

Thanks!

2009-03-23T16:30:00.002-05:00

Thanks to all the personal emails and way to go's. I'm back on the horse, and excited about the next weekends event. My first 100 miler.

To go back and clarify some things from the previous post. Adrian and I figured out a few things regarding my new bike. It came with a 56 for the big chain ring up front. This was probably the cause for my legs giving out so early. I'm a SLOW rider, so I shouldn't be trying to push such a huge gear. Adrian doesn't even ride a 56, so I really shouldn't be. I made an appt with J&A and I'm getting re-fitted by Zane on Friday, in time for the next ride. The master link in my chain was bent, hence the chain problems.

I still love my bike, love the training, and know I can do this. I will 100% think of Saturday's ride out on the Ironman course. It will and has made me stronger.

Thanks for all your support :) Pity party is over, back to training :)

I survived the toughest mental challenge EVER!

2009-03-22T18:48:00.002-05:00

Fast forward to Saturday, March 21st. I had planned on doing the Spokes and Spurs ride with T3. The prescription was 2 times 44 mile loops with 50 minutes off the bike.

I was excited about riding my new bike on the roads. I heard there was a group starting at 7:30am so I planned my morning accordingly. I woke up at 5:30, ate my whole wheat waffle with peanut butter, and banana. Used the restroom and was out the door and in Liberty Hill by 7:15am. I heard there was going to be a group of girls to leave at 7:30, but later found out that they were doing a different course. I hung out till 8am and started with the group. Dee was planning to ride the 44 mile course, so she kept me company for the first few miles. She later stopped at the first rest stop and I continued on. Chrissie told us, she wanted us to do the whole 88 miles without stopping.

My first loop was good. Great overall. I noticed pretty quickly on that my legs were burning, but took that as I was working hard. I was able to play in my aero bars, make a mental list of all the things I want changed. Around mile 39, I averaged 15.0 mph and let out the biggest "Whoopie!!' It was the high point of my ride. It slowly but surely turned to shit after that.

The hills seemed to be in the later part of the 44 miles, which was fine, but my average mph started to creep down. I finished the 44 miles averaging 14.8 mph. SUPER huge for me! I turned around for my 2nd loop and immediately felt exhausted. I had gone through my three water bottles, all filled with Heed. I need to test out something different for the next ride, like Sustained Energy, just to test it out. I got to the first rest stop and got off the bike to refill. I saw the last of the T3'ers coming back at the end of their ride. As soon as I got on my bike, one of the volunteers said, "You know they're picking up the signs, right?" and I told her thanks, but I had a map. As soon as that volunteer said that, the mental games started. My legs felt shot, I felt tired, it was hot, and I actually kept considering turning around. So I did this back and forth, stop and turn around, don't, stop and turn around, don't. I decided to tough it out. I ended up going through what I'd recount as the hardest mental challenge I've had. In all the marathons, all the races I've done, nothing could have compared to what I went through today.

Knowing that I was towards the end was daunting, but I assumed there had to have been one or two others behind me. I plugged on. During my first loop, my chain had fallen off, but I corrected it with gearing and got it back on without having to get off my bike. I pedaled on, and at each volunteer, I pleaded that I was ok and please don't waste their afternoon waiting on me, I'd be ok. Some cheered, but I really felt bad. I hate being the last one, but I hate it even more when I'm the last one and I know I'm inconveniencing others. So, I pedal, pedal and my legs are toast. They burn, I can't get comfortable, I'm just spent for the day. Most of the signs in the beginning were up, but I used the turn by turns and was fine.

Then the sag wagons... oh the sag wagons. That was another mental low. Having the sag wagon follow you. I just kept pedaling, but was getting frustrated. I kept waving for them to pass me, but they wouldn't. I kept talking to myself. "I can't spin faster, I'm in my easiest gear, please leave me the F alone!!!" They would pass me just long enough to pick up the sign I'd pass, then follow me. It was awful. I kept thinking, should I just quit?? Hell no, I'm almost freaking done. I came up to a hill, my chain fell off, but I couldn't get it back on by gearing and there I went. Per-klunk! I tipped over on my new bike. Scratched my leg, but my ego and confidence were hurt more than anything. I got up and took a breather. I was out of breath and I was mentally and physically EXHAUSTED. And here comes the sag wagon. I feel bad now, but at the time I was beyond frustrated. Here's how the conversation went...

Sag: You ok?
Me: Yes, I'm fine, thanks.
Sag: Do you need some help?
Me: No thanks.
Sag: Oooo, did you fall?
Me: Yes, I'm fine. I just tipped over, I'm ok, really.
Sag: Well, do you need help?
Me: No, please go away, thank you.
Sag: What happened?
Me: Nothing, please. My chain fell off and I'll be fine.
Sag: Let us get out and put your chain back on.
Me: I SAID I WAS FINE. I'M TIRED, I NEED TO CATCH MY BREATH. PLEASE LEAVE!!!!!

They left. I put my chain back on and was back at it. Legs were shot, but I was proud at me for finishing. I only 15 miles left per the sag wagon. I had switched screens on my Garmin because it was playing on me mentally to see my average just spiral down from the 15.0 that I had worked so hard at. Now I was staring at my time and my real pace. I was only going 10-14 mph at best. I just kept plugging along. I kept anticipating that last steep climb and there it was.

I pedaled as fast as I could, shifted up to my easiest gear and spun as long as I could in my saddle. The split second I stood up, my chain dropped and tipped over, yes a second time. I walked my bike to the top of the hill, but the back tire wasn't moving. I tried to get the chain back on, before the stupid sag wagon saw me, and it was jammed in between the bike frame and the chain ring. I pulled pretty hard, but it's all relative to my overall tiredness. Here comes the sag wagon. It was a different one from the one that I felt bad about telling them to screw off. I just threw my hands up in the air. They asked if I was ok, and I told them I gave up and that I needed a ride back.

The two men were nice. I hopped in, he put my bike in the back and chatted. One minute into the drive the radio calls out, "Anyone know the status on the turtle rider??" The passenger says, "Yes, we have her in the truck." Radio says, "Good, now we can pick up the rest of the signs and call it a day." That made me feel AWFUL. I almost and now that I think back, I should have said something. I was already in a mentally low place. The last hour of my ride, I could only thing about the following things.

- I HATE HATE HATE being slow on the bike.
- I'm starting early NO MATTER WHO'S DOING WHAT OR HOW FAR.
- I never ride with ANYONE from T3, so why should I start with them.
- Sag wagons should hide or drive back far enough to where the rider doesn't feel the heat from the engine on their back. It's just not nice and it's mentally degrading.

I got back to my car, loaded the bike, and called Adrian. I had breakdown #3. I just started crying. I was tired, I was defeated, and it wasn't even my fault. I wanted to finish, I'm not a quitter, but I couldn't get my chain unstuck. He told me to run, and I couldn't catch my breath long enough to tell him I couldn't. I was mentally taxed and just wanted to be home. He promised me that running would make me feel better. This is why I love him. He said, "Take a deep breath and run 10 min out and come back and come home." I said, "Ok" hung up and finished my cry.

I put my shoes on and started running. Everyone was done, the parking lot was clear and I left my Garmin in the car, on purpose. OMG, great run. It was just me and the sunshine. I ended up running 5 miles (I drove it to make sure afterwards) and I negative splitted it. I ran sub 10:00's which delighted me, and I could have run farther. I love running, and the thoughts changed. I started thinking about how tough the ride was and what I learned.

I learned that everything I just went through made me a stronger person.
I learned that I was 1.0 mph faster than my previous 80 mile ride.
I learned that even though I got picked up by the sag wagon, I only cut off 8-9 miles from the total course, which means from the 88 I was attempting doing, I got in my 80 miles. 79 is close enough.
I learned that even though the low's seem like you can't get any lower, there's always an up. Things will get better.
I learned that the new bike is going to make me faster, but I need more time in the saddle.
I learned Adrian pushes me and inspires me more than he'll ever know.

Elizabeth must have drove her run course, because I saw her twice and she gave me two huge smiles and "way to go's". That was awesome and totally helped me pick up my step and put on a smile. I was finally back in a happy place and I really appreciate her for that. She even emailed me a "Great Job" email and it's just made my heart smile.

Long day, mentally and physically, but glad I learned some valuable lessons from it.

Good day, in the end :) I'd go back and do it all over again. Next time, I would unclip without toppling over :)

Thanks Elizabeth, T3, and Adrian :)

Wednesday through Monday :)

2009-03-16T21:42:00.002-05:00

Wednesday, March 11th
Time: 4:15pm
Location: Jack and Adams
People: Me, Thomas and Zane
Comments: I picked up "Pretty". I know it sounds like a retarded name, but every time I see her, I say, "Hello, Pretty!" You have to emphasize the TT's in Pretty :) So that's her name. Thomas put the final touches on my bike fit, moved the aero bars a little and I took her home :)

Time: 7:00pm
Location: Lost Creek
People: Me, Sabrina, and other T3'ers
Weather: Cold, but not effing cold.
Comments: Wasn't really feeling the swim, but got through it. I think I slacked on parts, didn't do the complete workout, but got it done. The weather was yucky and not many of us showed, so I was glad to have gotten the workout in.

Day: Thursday, March 12th
Comments: Work. Got stuck working late, so missed my first spin class with Pretty :) Stayed at work till almost 10pm, but got alot done.

Day: Friday, March 13th
Comments: OFF day. Took my girl to my honey's with me and he transferred my Garmin cadence monitor, took off the gear guard thingamabob, and we just stared at her gorgeousness :)

Day: Saturday, March 14th
Location: Barton Springs Pool
People: Rogue Zooma Half group. Ran with Lori and Dee
Weather: low 40's, but for some reason I felt ok.
Comments: Run was good. I really miss running with my girls. The route was hillier than expected, but humbled myself and made me realize I've done NO hill workouts since Ironman training started. I might need to incorporate the Exposition loop in during the week instead of just running around Town Lake over and over and over. We averaged 10:10 for all 15 miles. I think I only ran 14. I had to be at my condo's HOA meeting, so had to pick up the pace for the last two miles. Good run. I also noticed, I need to eat more during my runs. For some reason I need more nutrition than before when I was just in marathon training.

Day: Sunday, March 15th
Location: 360, Shoal Creek
People: Adrian and I
Weather: Cool, but not cold
Comments: I kept putting off my 60 mile ride on the trainer until I had no more time. I don't know when I'm going to learn that I need a group setting to do my workouts. I should have done my ride with everyone else at PTC yesterday, but I was stubborn and picked running with my girlfriends instead. I didn't get my 60 miles in, but did get to ride my bike for about an hour with Adrian. I feel more comfortable now having done this from our test ride. I can't freaking wait till Saturday. I can totally feel the speed on my new bike. I feel freakishly fast :) Only rode 11 miles with stopping and starting several times. We ran into old neighbors then stopped at Adrian's brothers house, so the ride wasn't consistent, but gave me enough time to play in my aero bars and get a little more used to my girl :)

Chit Chat: I'm sooooo freaking excited about Galveston. I can't freaking wait to get a tri under my belt :) I know it's hard to compare triathlon times, but I've only done one half Ironman and that was back in July 2006. My time was a whopping 8:02:29. My goal for Galveston is to stay out of my comfort zone and beat my last time :)

Workout Updates

2009-03-11T12:19:00.003-05:00

I'm finding that keeping track of my workouts is hard to do!! Here's what I can remember, I don't think I've updated my workouts for almost two weeks, so here's what I can recall.

Monday - March 2nd, ran 7 with Dee, then swim class. Nothing extraordinary stands out.

Tuesday - March 3rd worked late, no workout.

Wednesday - March 4th - run with swim class... or maybe just swim class, can't remember.

Thursday - March 5th - ditched workout for poker with buddies. I didn't win, but I made it to the final table and got to catch up with the guys and catch ALOT of grief for training and not playing poker :)

Friday - March 6th OFF day

Saturday - March 7th - see last post, rode 50 with Dee.

Sunday - March 8th - see last post, ran 10 miles. Very humblings run. I had to walk last 1.5 miles.

Monday - March 9th - ran for 40 minutes on the trail, then went to swim. I had an incredible workout. I got through the entire 2700 meters without fear of getting covered up by the tarp :) I also did my 300 meter TT in 6:05, which means I'm getting closer and closer to becoming a sub 2:00/100 meter swimmer! Chrissie even said that my last 100 was faster than my first. Good stuff. My form is getting a ton better, Chrissie is finding less and less to critique me on. Now I'm looking forward to pushing myself and working on speed!!!

Tuesday - March 10th - core class with Chrissie and it was good. I could do 2-3 REAL pushups, but they weren't very good. I still can't go down very far, so I switched to my girl pushups. I always enjoy her core classes... I might venture to the Wed am in the coming weeks. Spin class was INSANE!! Not only was the class hard, but there were over 50 of us in there. I'm finally making friends, learning names, cracking jokes. I love it! 30 minute run after the bike with Elizabeth and Erin. Good stuff. My legs felt awesome! I could have kept running, I love that feeling. Running will always be my first love.

Wednesday - more to come, I get to pick her up!!! Planning on swim class tonight, no matter what the weather, I'm on a roll :)

Excited about a new bike, who me??

2009-03-09T15:22:00.003-05:00

Never in a million years did I ever dream that I would get excited about the purchase of a new bike. I've always had my heart in running, especially after my first Team Rogue experience where I found a little bit of speed :) The past 9 weeks of Ironman training have been eventful to say the least. I had my share of downs in the beginning, but I'm easily outweighing those with positive fun moments. I've finally embraced my new T3 family and I'm having a lot of fun training.

When I got into triathlons, I planned on going to Walmart and buying the most expensive bike they had there. I figured that would be good enough. A friend told me about Jack and Adams, and their packages. I almost crapped my pants when I saw the price. $700 of what??? The week before I went in to get one, the rate went up $100. $800 on a bicycle and the necessities just seemed absurd, but I wanted to be taken seriously, so I bit the bullet. I was proud once I got everything. It was perfect for me since I was a newbie. I got everything that you needed to complete a tri.

Fast forward to 2009. I know realize that the bike I bought was ENTRY level. It weighs about as much as I do, and just going down hills with teammates, I can tell my bike is crappy. It did what it was supposed to. It got me accustomed to riding and it got me through my first half Ironman. I'm thankful for that :) But now it's time to move on...

Now enter Ms. (to be filled in later). She's so pretty. She just looks fast. Adrian rode my clunker as I test rode this one. Felt very wierd and unstable, but it's just going to take time to get used to it. I'm looking forward to spin classes and long rides :)

Now I just need to come up with a name for her...

Ramblings...

2009-03-04T11:45:00.003-06:00

Well work is going better, although still insanely busy. The more and more I look into the future months, the more it makes me nervous that the Ironman date couldn't have been at a more inopportune time. Then I realized that work is always going to be here, it's always going to be busy and there's never a good time :)

I stayed late last night and got a ton done, got here at 7am this morning, working through my lunch, have meetings upon meetings, and going to enjoy getting out of here on time to run with the girls. We'll run a few miles together, catch up on girly gossip, then head to swim class.

With working late last night, I did get home earlier than I would have if I would have gone to spin class. This enabled me to clean the grout in my tile in my 2nd bathroom :) Baking soda and vinegar works wonders for dirty grout :) I got to do a load of laundry, watch a couple reality shows and get some cleaning done at the house.

Full Time Job + Ironman Training = Near Impossible!

2009-03-02T12:55:00.003-06:00

Lately, I've been feeling like there's not enough time in the day to get what I need done. I'm envious of my fellow T3 teammates that I see doing workouts during business hours. I wish I had a more lenient job that allowed for 80 mile bike rides on Friday, or 2 hour lunches to do swim workouts, but I don't, and I do love the job that I have.

Work is crazy busy and I couldn't have picked a more busy time to start this training, but it is what it is and I need to get it done. Blogging has taken a back seat, Facebook only gets my attention on my iPhone, and Myspace, what's that? Lately, I only have enough time to workout, work, or sleep. There were a few nights last week where I was too tired to take a shower. I just laid down, passed out and woke up to shower, now that's just gross. Weekends are filled with attempting to spend time with Adrian, and thankfully he understands what I'm trying to accomplish. I'm grateful for that.

Saturday: I ran 19 miles, it was great. My speed isn't what it was in California, but I feel like I have my legs back after running the Austin Marathon. I got to run with Lori and Dee, and that's always a treat!! Went home, showered, went on a walk with Adrian and the boys, then we did dinner and a movie... at home in our pj's :)

Sunday: I did the longest bike ride of my life, so far :) 80 miles. I'm happy with getting in the distance, but not happy with my speed. I only averaged 12.4 mph according to my Garmin. It does include the stopping at multiple red lights, but I was pushing hard, and really thought it should have been better. I still have a TON of work to do, at the rate I did on Sunday, I won't make the bike cutoff in CdA. I still have 3.5 months to go, so I'm looking forward to the challenge :) I know I can do this!!!

Sacrifices: Even though I got accepted into the cycling study, I'm withdrawling myself. Not enough time, and I need to make work my priority right now. The more I get caught up and ahead, the more I can focus on training.

Workout Update

2009-02-25T21:23:00.003-06:00

Monday, Feb 23rd
Time: 4:30pm
Workout: Just run
Where: Town Lake Trail
People: Me :) with viewing of Dionn
Comments: Attempted to run... but the legs weren't feeling it. After the first mile, I realized it was my first run since the marathon. I guess the legs weren't fully recovered. Only made it three miles.

Time: 7:00pm
Location: Lost Creek
Workout: Swim
People: SABRINA! and other T3'ers.
Comments: I made it through my first full workout without being threatened by the dreaded tarp!! Woo hoo!! 2700 meters, whoopie!! I also broke 2:00 minutes for a 100 meter swim. Double whoopie!! I actually jumped up and down in the water!! 1:58. Chrissy was awesome and critiqued me more. Just when I think I've got it, she switches something up and tells me to work on something else. I love it, it's making me faster!

Tuesday, Feb 24th
I had a CE class in Round Rock, so didn't make it to core/spin, so I skipped out. OFF Day!!

Wednesday, Feb 25th
Time: 5:00pm
Workout: Run
Location: Town Lake Trail
People: Me, with viewing of Shawnda, Maggie, and Rhejeanne :)
Weather: for the first time, HOT! :) But good hot!
Comments: I need to quit looking at my Garmin. I think I've become obsessed with staring at it and my pace. I started running, and after the first mile, I realized I was running slower than what I'd like. I'd like to keep my pace around 9:00 to 9:30 and I was doing 10's. BUT, I felt good. Legs were moving and calves were feeling much better. So I decided to just run based on feeling vs. what my pace was. I think I need to do this more often. One of the reasons why the Austin marathon went so well for me was it was the first marathon I didn't wear a pace band and I had no clue what I was running. I need to remember that, just run to run. I did the 7 mile loop and finished strong. Good run.

I skipped the swim class I normally attend because I have my VO2 testing in the morning to see if I can qualify for the cycle study. I'm excited, although the bike is my weakest sport so a little intimdated at pushing on my weakest sport. Through Facebook, I've noticed some FAST T3 women qualifying and just not sure if I'm up to their fitness on the bike. Who knows... we shall see tomorrow at 8am :)

Last Official Marathoner

2009-02-23T16:21:00.002-06:00

I'm stealing this from Amber :)

Pretty inspirational...

Last place marathoner shares story
By Pamela LeBlanc Monday, February 23, 2009, 10:41 AM

Lara Newcomer wasn’t the first across the finish line of the Austin Marathon last weekend. She wasn’t the 100th or the 1,000th or even the 4,000th.
She was the last person to officially cross the finish line, and she did it with the help of her husband, other people in the race and a whole lot of folks who saw her go by and reached out to offer encouragement. It took her 7 hours and 20 minutes.
Here is her story. Thanks for sharing, Lara. And congratulations!
“Last Sunday’s marathon wasn’t my first, but it was certainly my hardest. About a month ago I was diagnosed with plantar fasciitis, which makes walking very painful at times. I stopped training and started treatments to try to let things heal up a little, but was still struggling with it. Then a week before the marathon I came down with the flu. I spent Monday and Tuesday in bed coughing and wheezing, with my fever hovering between 100 and 103.
My parents tried to talk me out of doing the marathon. But, I’ve been doing the Distance Challenge, a series of six races that started in October and totals almost 100 miles. The Austin Marathon was the last race in the challenge and if I didn’t do it, I wouldn’t get any credit for the Distance Challenge at all. So, I decided to give the marathon my best shot.
I knew when I got up Sunday morning that I wasn’t 100%, but I thought I had enough in me to do the marathon. I met up with my training partner, Shae, and two of her friends at the starting line. It all started pretty well —- I thought it was a good omen that there was a guy playing the cowbell on the Congress Avenue Bridge. It only took about three miles before I realized that my body was not going to let me keep up with the pace Shae and her friends were setting. Shae realized this and sent her friends on ahead. We slowed down a little, but I could tell that the pace was still just too fast for my poor recovering body.
By mile 8, I had decided to send Shae on ahead. I really thought I was done. I had texted Adam, my husband, that my body just couldn’t keep the pace and that I was going to quit. Shae said she’d stay with me until mile 10 because that’s where our husbands were. At mile 10, she went on ahead, but I decided that I had nothing to lose. So, I told Adam that I was just going to keep walking until I couldn’t walk anymore.
A lovely woman named Marissa had overheard me talking to Shae and to Adam and she was walking about my pace (very slow) and decided to walk with me — we decided that we would help and encourage each other. I don’t know her last name or where she’s from, but she walked with me from mile 10 until mile 23 and was a great encouragement.
By mile 13 my feet were killing me. Each step was painful and my knees were beginning to hurt because of the way I was compensating for the pain in my feet. A woman I don’t even know looked at me and told me she could tell by my face that I was dehydrated. And then my dear friend Edgar rode up on his bike. He just happened to be riding first aid and gave me a bottle of water with electrolytes and some of his wife’s “magic” pierogies. Thank God for Edgar and the water and pierogies! It was like someone flipped a switch and I suddenly had more energy and I was pretty confident that I was going to make it.
By mile 17 I wasn’t so confident anymore….the police car and official race vehicles had been right behind us since mile 15…..I knew I was the very end of the line. Everything below my hips was hurting and I really thought that something was going to seize up and I just wouldn’t be able to walk anymore. But, Edgar showed up again at mile 17 with more water and pierogies and my switch flipped again and I kept on walking.
At mile 20, I thought— heck, 6 more miles?! That’s just a 10K — I can do that in my sleep! My pace picked up a little and I really felt confident. Marissa was starting to slow down and I did all I could to encourage her.
Mile 23 nearly did me in. At that point a motorcycle policeman rode up next to us and told us that we needed to pick up the pace and catch up with the ladies in front of us or we’d have to move out of the street and on to the sidewalk and would probably not get credit for the race. Well, I nearly quit right then —- I knew my body didn’t have enough left to catch up to those women. Marissa tried to encourage me, and she found some sort of inner reserve and powered right past those women in front of us. I picked up my pace, but I couldn’t breathe and my body felt so weak. I just wanted to sit down on the curb and give up.
Adam had met me at several different spots on the course to encourage me and see how I was doing and if I needed anything. He showed up again just past mile 23. I was ready to quit, but he hopped out of the truck and started walking with me. He just wouldn’t let me stop.
Then Edgar showed up on his bike again. And there we went —- Edgar on my left, and Adam on my right (in his blue jeans and work boots). Every time I wanted to quit (which was pretty often), they talked me out of it. Edgar coached me through the hills and helped me catch a breath when I was having trouble. Every time Adam saw spectators he shouted, “You know what we have here? A marathon finisher!!! We’ve got a finisher here!!” or “You know what I see? I see a woman who looked inside for some quit but couldn’t find any!!”
There was a police woman at 23rd and Guadalupe who reminded me that pain is just weakness leaving the body. And another police woman at 20th and Guadalupe who shooed pedestrians out of the crosswalk so I didn’t have to break my stride (slow as it was). The motorcycle officers on MLK began cheering with Adam as I made my way down the hill. And then I had less than a mile to go. My body wanted to quit so badly, but I was so close.
When there were 200 meters left, a race official with a walkie talkie approached me — I was sure he was going to tell me that I was too late, they’d already closed the race. But, he held out his hand and said, “Lara, I’m the race organizer and it’s my honor to escort you across the finish line.” I burst into tears — and Adam did, too.
I turned the corner on to Congress Avenue and Adam shouted again, “Do you know what I see? I see a woman who looked inside for some quit and couldn’t find any!” And the DPS trooper standing there looked at me and said, “That’s the kind of determination we need. You should be on the force!” Adam clapped his hands, looked at me and said, “I am more proud of you than I have been in the 18 years I’ve known you. I’ve seen you do some remarkable things, but I have never seen anyone with such determination, will power and grit. You made a conscious decision all day long to keep at this and you never gave up.”
I cried, he cried … and stepped away from me, for the first time since mile 23 … so that I could have the finish line to myself. I felt like a celebrity — there were photographers and race officials and people cheering. Once I crossed the finish line, the race organizer put the medal around my neck and we had a photo op (guess there are some advantages to being last) and the workers started tearing down the finish line.
I want to thank the police officers who spent all day sitting at intersections to keep my slow butt safe. And a special thank you to those who were so encouraging to me. I also want to thank the families who stayed out in their front yards for hours to cheer on even the slowest marathoners (especially those at Rutgers Avenue and those on Avenue H). Fellow marathoners Marissa and Walt were incredible inspirations to me — I wish I knew how to contact them and thank them. And I just can’t thank Edgar and Adam enough — without them, I’m fairly certain that I’d have just sat down on the curb at 24th and Guadalupe and given up.
It took me 7 hours and 20 minutes to complete the marathon. I was the last “official” finisher. But, I did it — I conquered my weakness and my doubt and I accomplished my goal. It was an epic journey — and one I’m glad is over — but I will never forget the feeling of confidence from finishing what I set out to do.”

Weekly Update

2009-02-23T08:41:00.003-06:00

Yikes, between blogging, Facebook, Myspace, work, training, and personal life... blogging unfortunately took the back seat this week.

Quick Recap:
Feb 15th - Sunday - Austin Marathon
Monday - Off day, I was off from work and did NOTHING exercise related. I think Adrian and I walked the dogs, but that was it.
Tuesday - Off day, I used the marathon as an excuse to not do anything for two days in a row :)
Wednesday - finally went to swim. I only swam 2200 meters vs the 2700 planned workout, due to slowness. I've still only completed one workout so far. I'm just not that fast in the pool yet. When I see the blue tarps, it's game over, unfortunately.
Thursday - core and spin
Friday - Off, birthday dinner with friends.
Saturday - 56 miles on the bike. Windy. Rainy. Cold. Miserable. I really wanted to complete the 71 planned ride, but gave in to bailing out :( Next week, no excuses, full mileage no matter what. I did run 2 miles off the bike also.
Sunday - Laziest Sunday EVER! Adrian and I didn't get out of bed until 4:30pm. Yes, 4:30pm. We only got up to get food and use the restroom. We napped on and off ALL day long. Then when we got up at 4:30, we moved the party to the living room. Entire day of laziness.

Now it's time to get back on track with my exercising and my nutrition!!!

Birthday is OVER!

Riley Update 2/17/09

2009-02-17T20:23:00.003-06:00

Oh, Mr. Riley :) Adrian and I found out this past Friday that Riley has severe heartworms. Adrian thankfully, has a great relationship with his vet, so we're thankful. From start to finish, the bills are probably going to run $1500, which just a week after having him, we've both fallen in love. Of course, the first thing I asked was, "Are we going to fall in love with him and he's not going to make it??" The vet said there's a 2% chance that he won't survive, so I think we're in the clear.

The heartworm treatment started on Friday. He's got plugs in his ears for both earaches. His eyes are a ton better, and the bad news is that while he's on the heartworm treatment, he's not allowed to go out :( No walks, no dog park, no trails. We need to keep him as calm as possible. Adrian felt awful when the vet told him this, because the day before he had taken the three boys to the park and made him run. He didn't know, but with the way the treatment goes, the more active and riled up he gets, the more of a chance he has of the dead worms filtering into his lungs, and this could be fatal. So, as much as it breaks our hearts, he's had to stay home while the other boys do their daily walk. It's just a month, and we're almost a week into it.

He's adorable and we love him so much already. Adrian gave him his first haircut. Yes, a mohawk. Will post those pics later :) Oh, and at the vet, he weighed in at a whopping 104! Holy moly. We can't wait to get him active. He's only 4, and not the assumed 7-8, so he's got lots of puppy to go. Maybe he can be my trail dog :) The Pomeranian can keep up with fast dad, and I can take the big boys since I'm slower. Finally, a benefit to being the slower athlete in the family!!

Chubby vs. Less Chubby :)

2009-02-17T16:03:00.003-06:00

Chubby
Zilker Relays, August 2008

Less Chubby
Austin Marathon, February 2009

I can't wait to post my Not Chubby, in about 5-6 more pounds!!

Thanks Meredith!!!

Austin 2009, Race Report

2009-02-17T11:46:00.005-06:00

Pictures brought to you by Josh :) Thanks!

Saturday was a great day. The weather was crappy and cold, but I had a great time on the bike ride. That evening, Adrian and I were talking about the marathon on Sunday. I was clueless on what pace I should run. I wasn't training for a marathon, I hadn't tapered or done anything different. I just wanted to run the marathon to finish my 7th, complete the BioPhysical study, and experience what running on tired legs from riding 60 hilly miles the day before. Adrian said to race it. So I agreed to meet up with Dee and run for her as long as I could and just play it by ear.

Race Morning
I woke up at 5am, ate my breakfast, got my stuff together and was out the door. It was amazing to not have to find a ponytail holder :) Just wake up, get dressed and run :) Met up with Dee at the Rogue tent, and we were off. We made a potty stop in between some cars, and we were soooo giggly and excited to be running together. We lined up behind the 4:00 hour group. We saw Ruth as we were crossing the start line, but she didn't see us. We got to see Trista aka Lotto Ho, Monika, and some others.

Start
Why in the world did they not close down all four lanes of Congress?? It was congested the entire way up there. No way to find your groove when you're stuck behind slower people, trying not to bump or trip over people as you sift through the masses. And then they seemed to hurd us like cattle through the alley. No worries on starting out too fast, cause it was impossible. We didn't thin out and get our space until we were on our way back on 1st street. Dee and I had found our groove and were on pace. Every mile, I just kept thinking, "Wow, I'm running and it feels great." I kept waiting for my legs to blow up. I know it's negative, but I started the race with the intention of only running a few miles with Dee. Every extra mile was just icing on the cake to be running with her. I just kept reminding myself, I just need to get her to the halfway point so Steve can take over.

While running down 1st, we saw Andrea, it was great seeing her. She was looking strong. A woman came up passing us and screamed out to Dee that we must be triathletes because we had some nice calves. That was hilarious. We later ended up passing the "Calf Lover". The miles clicked away. I tried to do most of the talking, but we both got carried away. It's been forever since we've run together, it was awesome to be with my Dee again :) Lake Austin came and went. The hills, we ran nice and relaxed and they flew by. Before you knew it, we were at the halfway point.

Where the F is Steve?? We kept running, and kept panning the crowds. Then all you could hear was, "Woooooooooooooooooo!!! There's my honey!!!" It was Adrian on the right, yelling his head off. Steve was on the left. They moved in and started running. It was awesome. Adrian had a bag of bubble gum, Gu's, Powerbars, and some Cliff Blocks. He fed Dee some CliffBlocks, then proceeded to feed some other woman, right there in front of me!! hahaha. I gave him crap jokingly and he was off. He took our long sleeves, arm warmers, bottle, etc.. It was Steve, Dee, and I.

Great Northern was awful. I was looking forward to the flat, but it's just such a LONG road! I tried to pump up Dee with stories of spraypainting, hiding and giggling behind signs, car chases in Lori's mom's car. We rounded the corner and there was her AJ. "You're looking great mom, I love you, keep going!" So sweet. And his cute honey was there cheering her on too. Dee picked up the pace for a few minutes, then got nauseous. We slowed it down, and then I became clueless. I kept thinking we should see Lori soon and she can run with us. I thought about California and how if I had seen Dee not feeling well, I'd probably have stopped her from running. I think I panicked a bit. Steve was there, which was reassuring. We kept plugging along. Around 18, I figured the best thing was for her to chase me, so I ran just a few feet in front.

Before I knew it, I couldn't see her and Adrian was screaming at me again. I told him we needed to wait, but we decided she was ok cause her Steve was there. We proceeded onward. OMG, my legs were on fire. In a good way. I felt FINE! We were plugging along. He kept telling me how proud I was and I just kept telling him how shocked I was that I was running so good. I told him how much I missed running. How greatful I was to have the health to be running, the legs to be running, and the awesome boyfriend by my side. We just kept plugging away. 20, 21, 22, 23. Then I got nervous. My legs started tiring. The mental game started. I knew the hills were coming and I was freaking out. Adrian was awesome. He was watching my pace, speeding me up when I was slowing down, making me take advantage of the downhills, weaving me through the crowd, it was great. I got grumpy on him and told him to shut up several times, but he kept me going. I really enjoyed having him there for me when it got tough. I never walked, I kept up on the hills and before I knew it, we were on Congress. I full on sprinted and got fished by a couple of people, but was SOOO incredibly happy with my time. 4:11:21. Who in the world would have thought I could have run that after the 60 mile bike ride the day before.

I'm 100% completely happy with it. Running with no pressure is sooo much better than stressing with pace bands (I wore none) worrying about being ahead or behind, and all the other stresses that come with racing your A race. For the first time, I'm actually giddy about the Ironman. I'm gonna whoop up on that marathon!! I can't wait to get off the bike!!

Splits:

949
934
925
913
851
907
908
937
938
939
953
1004
941
940
953
944
936
1001
933
906
918
855
903
924
949
959
819 for the .2

New training, New Year, New Hair!!

2009-02-14T20:20:00.003-06:00

I'd like to first thank Steve, Dee's Steve for having the courage to tell me in California that my hair was FUNKY! And then Adrian for backing up his comment when I asked his opinion. December 2008, I told them, pick out a haircut, and I'll do it.

The added training schedule helped me push forward with the decision. The multiple washing of the hair was a pain. The hair in my face during spin class, the hair during runs was getting bothersome.

I made an appointment at Luxe Apothetique in the Domain. My cousin's father cuts hair there. I've never had a "real" haircut. I've always been that girl that paid $20 for a trim and never ventured for anything stylish. OMG, what an awesome experience. If anyone needs a haircut, go there and ask for Alonzo!! He spent TWO HOURS on my big ole fro! Used 10 million different scissors, shavers, trimmers, and thinners. Washed my hair twice, conditioned once. Dried it, cut it again. Styled it. And the whole time explaining everything. Super cool.

End result is my head feels like it weighs two ounces. The bike ride this morning was awesome. No worries about rubber bands. No headaches from the ponytail digging in my head for 5 hours on the ride.. no need to massage my head after the helmet was removed. I can't wait to swim, and definitely can't wait to run tomorrow with the new do!!

Thanks for all the compliments!!

I'm a badazz!!!

2009-02-14T20:12:00.003-06:00

Last night Adrian and I watched the weather and saw 60 degrees, Saturday. So this morning, when we woke up to do the ride, I only wore my bike shorts, socks, and T3 jersey. I stepped outside, and thought it was chilly, but blew it off. When I reached the school, I noticed that EVERYONE was wearing tights, arm warmers, headbands, gloves.. the whole 9 yards!!

I freaked and called Adrian, but he was already on his way. Yes, we take two different cars because of my slowness and his fastness. I don't expect him to wait an additional two hours, which is how long it takes me to finish my ride.

Despite being freezing, only the first 45 minutes was awful. I warmed up, and just dealt with the cold. I was late and missed the slowest group that takes off at 8:10. I rode by myself, but had a blast. I was playing with my gears, watching my cadence on my new monitor, my speed. I was having a good ole time. It was hilly, but they don't bother me anymore. It's more of a game with me now. Curious about how long I can keep up a cadence without having to switch gears, seeing how long I can stay in a bigger gear, etc. I almost made it to the end of the 30 mile route where I was to turn around and Adrian and Maurice caught me. I was told to turn around when I saw the big group on their way back, so I wouldn't be out there alone. I never saw the big group, but did see Adrian and Mo on their way back and I got two big "turnaround" glares and finger movements.

I turned around, but was irritated, cause I only had 1 mile to go. I was at mile 29. Argh. I turned around. The ride back was awesome. I turned on my Pandora on my iPhone and was singing along. Everyone slowly but surely passed me and I was the last one out there, but I was having fun. Legs felt great, my nutrition was great and I was having fun. Fun on my bike, wtf?? I never thought I'd say that.

58 miles, in cold, windy weather, practically nekkid. Good day... I feel like a bad ass, and blame it on my haircut. :)

Riley Update and the wasting of the rest of my lunch hour...

2009-02-13T12:57:00.003-06:00

So Mr. Riley is at the vet as I type this. Adrian said the bill was only $300, and we were expecting much much more. I think the vet is helping us out and giving Adrian some credits for having such a big heart.

The funny thing about this is that Adrian has had probably 6-7 people willing to come pick him up, but he keeps denying them. One lady has a son, and they just lost their lab. He found out they live in a travel trailer with no fenced yard. He denied them. Another one worked too much and Adrian said that wouldn't cut it. Another lived in an apartment, negative. Another admitted that they wouldn't be home for 4 days out of the week, but her 7 cats would keep him company. Denied.

I told Adrian to just quit wasting peoples time. He is an awesome dog and I want to keep him now, so he just needs to suck it up and call him his own :) After coming home from the vet, he had three calls and when Adrian said he invested $370 in vet bills, they said, "Oh.. uh.." Adrian immediately hung up on them! He cracks me up.

Adrian and I finished our conversation with him saying, "Noone can take better care of him than I can." and my response was, "FOOL, we're keeping him." and he replied, "Yeah, I know :)"

We now have 2 - 20lb cats, 2 - 100lb labradors, and yip yappy trail running 10lb Pomeranian. We have 250 pounds of furry loving animals. This makes my heart happy.

Happy Early Valentines to us!!

Oh - and I wonder what kind of hair cut Adrian will give him. Abare (the black one in the pic above) has a mohawk :)

Riley

2009-02-13T06:48:00.003-06:00

We've given him the name Riley. He just looks like a Riley. We thought we found him a home, but it fell through. The more time Adrian spends with him, the more he wants to keep him. Adrian just keeps telling me, "He's just such a cool dog!"

Adrian's going to take him to the vet and get a final workup on him. He's got really bad allergies, and we need to get all of his tests, shots, and whatever else done. Adrian took him on his walk at BullCreek last night without a leash and he's really coming into his own. He comes when you call, and I do feel bad that we don't know his name. So we're going to have to get him used to his new one :) He played with dogs at the park, enjoys dinner time with his brothers, and sleeps right on the side of the bed on his doggie bed. He's adorable. He snores just like Abare, so not only do I have TWO snoring men in my bed, I now have three, sheesh! I can sleep through anything, so no worries for me.

Adrian's going to make the final decision about adopting him out or keeping him forever today.

I'd like to preempt it and say, "Welcome home, Riley!!"

Spin/Core - Thursday

2009-02-13T06:47:00.001-06:00

I did spin and I did core :)

Done.

Note to self: Something funky going on in my knee... hmmm.

Found a stray :(

2009-02-11T09:30:00.003-06:00

Adrian takes our dogs to the dog park religiously everyday and the past few days, he’s noticed a stray. It’s a 12-13 year old white/yellow Labrador. He must have been abandoned, which breaks our hearts. He took him to the vet, paid to have his fleas taken care of and food for a full belly, but doesn’t know what to do next. There was no chip and no tags. He’s been neutered, and is just an old dog that wants to lay around.

There’s a Lab Rescue here in town, but they don’t accept strays. We could take him to the Town Lake Shelter, but they euthanize within 2 weeks because of overcrowding.

Does anyone have any ideas of where we could go to find a good home or an alternative to the pound??

Adrian is willing to pay $200 towards any shots or updates that need to be done at the vet if someone could take him in. We have two cats and two dogs already and a 5th animal would just be too much for us to handle.

Any advice would be appreciated.

Thanks,

Priscilla

Sweating like a pig

2009-02-10T22:55:00.002-06:00

Anyone who runs with me knows I'm not a big sweater. During the spin class today, it was HOT! I think it was the humidity, but I could not stop sweating. I thought maybe because I had soup from the deli downstairs instead of my normal turkey sandwich caused it. Maybe I retained too much fluid from that and that was the cause of me pouring sweat. It was gross. And of course I forgot a towel, so I was dripping everywhere.

After the workout, the entire T3 floor was covered in dew/sweat. It looked pretty gross. Another reason why I don't do Wednesday core yet :)

Adrian got me a Garmin cadence monitor for my Garmin. He took the old one off my bike and switched the new one to the back wheel so I can use it for spin classes. OMG, what a difference. Instead of timing myself, I can now just look down at my Garmin, see my speed, distance, and cadence count. It's awesome. I can't wait to play with it on the ride this weekend.

Monday, Lots of Funzies :)

2009-02-10T08:38:00.003-06:00

Today was my 3rd meeting with Meredith. I signed up for her 6 session program to lose weight and it's been an incredibly wonderful experience. I'm not going to lie and say I've been doing EVERYTHING I've been told, but in retrospect, my eating habits have changed full tilt. I've learned soooo many valuable lessons with my nutrition and I'm super excited to see what the next 6 weeks has to offer. So far... I've lost 5 pounds so far and can tell a huge difference in my workouts and how I feel about my body. If you're not using anyone and you're ready to take your nutrition to the next level, I highly recommend her :)

After the meeting, Lori and I decided to do a run together. OMG, what fun. I miss my Cookies dearly and having chances to run with them is definitely a treat.

Time: 6:45ish
Location: HEB Far West
Workout: Just run 8-10 miles
Completed Workout: 10 miles around a 9:55 pace
Weather: Cool, but perfect
Comments: We did the 3.25 mile loop and we did it three times. The hill on North Hills felt like a piece of cake the first time, but gradually got harder with each loop. I felt like Lori was really pushing the pace, and the pace felt awesome, but everytime we'd stop and I'd ask the pace, it was always below what I thought we were running. No biggie. I'm still struggling with getting my mindset out of "running only" mentality and into full triathlon running mode. It was a great run. Lori saw this HUGHMONGOUS Mastiff on the route. Then later in the run, I saw something that stopped me in my tracks. I couldn't run and laugh at the same time. That was an awesome feeling. While I'm enjoying T3 and making friends, I still miss these moments. The overwhelming giggle factor. It was hilarious. I saw something that made my lungs sieze up in sheer joy. CRACK! Who doesn't like to see crack?? It's just like someone falling down or farting.. you just HAVE to laugh. It's not the first time I've seen this crack, nor the last, but this was definitely the best crack I've seen at the right moment in my training. I needed that laugh.

Thanks Lori... for the crack and the laughs ;)

Splits:
10:54
9:48
9:28
10:28
9:50
9:35
10:01
9:54
9:28
9:38

Saturday, Feb 7, 2009 - Adrian's 12 Hour MTB race

2009-02-09T10:57:00.004-06:00

What a day!! Adrian has been looking forward to this race for quite some time. My love is running and his is mountain bike racing.

We got to Warda around 4:30, set up the motorhome and took the boys for a walk. We randomly talked about the race, figured out our plan for nutrition, and made some final tweaks in his plan. Last year, when he competed in the 24 hour race, I'm not going to lie, my "support" wasn't very good. I took naps, checked in here and there and depended on him coming to the motorhome and telling me what he wanted. This time around I wanted to make sure I was REAL support and wanted to be there every step of the way. I think he can describe his race better so I'm posting his race report below in red.

Warda 12 Hour MTB Race
2/9/09

Distance: 8 mile loop/12 hours
Time: 11:59
Laps: 17 (135 Miles)
Finish: 1st Solo Male Sport Category
Temp: Mid 70’s, overcast
Wind: 22-28 mph.

This is the fifth time I have done this race so I was more mentally prepared this time around. The first change in game plan this year was to sprint the La Mons start run to the bike as opposed to jog. This paid off big later in the day in that I was well into my 2nd lap while several other Solo racers were mid way through their first, also I was able to more easily get into my groove and desired pace by avoiding slower traffic congestion. Second change in plan was to simply take hand ups from support for the first 6 hours and just not get off the bike. This was my Gf’s idea.

I need to interject now that there is absolutely no way that I would have done so well let alone win my division w/out my GF’s support. Priscilla (my GF) got little to no rest the whole day. The first 6 hours we were pushing our lap times pretty strong (all well under 40 min.) She would meet me at the top of a long easy climb w/ new bottle, Gu, gum, what ever. I never had to stop, she would just run along side me and give me what I needed or just shove what I needed in my mouth. She would show up at other locations on the course as well. Oh yea, she made me feel like a “Rock Star”! I can’t emphasize the importance of competent support in an event like this. Mixing bottles just right, changing flavors, adjusting ratios of protein/carbs/etc., keeping track of were you are in the race and then figuring out who your competition is and then were they are in a race is Not easy. Eventually she got so dialed in that she had our position down to how many minutes up we were on the Sport field and how far behind the Expert field we were, but I am getting ahead of my self. Point is she was outstanding, could not have done it w/out her.

So we pushed pretty hard the first 3 hours. I wanted to kinda feel the field out and see where we stood. I know it may seem early and not a good game plan, but I was comfortable with my fitness level. What I was not happy w/ was the 20 something guy from Volkswagen w/ the same game plan for the day, (Winning). I think we were w/ in minutes of each other for atleast 4 laps during the middle hours. At one point we had identical laps and time. But this was good I wanted to push or be pushed for the entire race.

After 8 ½ hours we were slowly but surely putting some time on the primary competition. 10 hours in we had locked in the win for Solo Sport Male. This is/was monumental for me. I have wanted this win for some time now, but no time to savor the glory. Priscilla seamlessly shifted my focus from “Wholy Crap Honey, I am really gonna win this!” to “Yea, good job….you are about 12 minutes behind the Expert Solo male w/ the same lap count”. Yes, this constitutes Stellar Support. Now I am not so naïve and realize that I am not competing w/ this person nor does he even care or even know my time or lap count. He is in the coveted category of Expert Racer. However, the race goal Priscilla and I had set had been met and we still had around 2 hours left. Priscilla was right, time to train. Train the mind any way. If I had been racing Expert class (which I will from this point forward) I would need to make up that 12 minutes and finish the race with equal laps in a faster time or log one more lap for a win in Expert Class. This gave my mind now something to focus on and not the aches and pains.

I would like to say that I knuckled down and ripped out a couple of fast laps, not so much, but for the first time ever in a race I started to take control my mind and that allowed me to control my race. Instead of thinking about aches and pains and fretting about having to do that climb one more time I took control of my mind and the ill effects of unsupportive random thoughts. I am not saying I went to my happy place I am just saying that for me this was the first time I truly had control of my mind and thoughts and my focus had never been more spot on or clear. I have heard of marathon’ers and iron man practicing this (in no specific way) and I would like to think that I have maybe entered into a new level of race/training. “Control the mind control the race”

Last lap, I stood on the pedals most of the way riding in an interval type fashion pedaling big gears. Pedal, pedal, pedal…….coast, repeat. During a long, flat, open field section of the course just before the last big climb I came up on four other riders staggered out over 50 yards or so. Creeping by each of them I noticed they all latched on one at a time, we had created a small pace line if you will. All of us feeding off one another’s withering energy. The chatter behind me was uplifting….”Thank god this is the last lap”, “I am so freakin tired”, “I am never doing this again” I heard. Then I heard, “Hey Cannondale guy, (I ride a Cannondale) are you that Solo guy with like 17 Laps?” Sure he could have been talking about the Expert winner, but I was on my 17th lap so I quietly answered “Yes”. A few of them started in with their own ooo’s and ahhhs. That was awesome and more than gratifying. Admiration and support from other racers is priceless (fuel for the brain). I made the last big climb one the bike w/ one other guy on my wheel, we both relished in that last feet and congratulated one another for the next three minutes. On the last short climb just 3 minutes from the finish I passed what I later found out was the Expert Class winner. I crossed the line with a minute to spare at 11:59.

Again, this was a monumental day for me in so many ways. I truly took so much from this race that will benefit for races to come.

Nutrition Consumption:

Fluid Total: 2 gallons water, 1 gallon Gatorade G
14 Scoops of Perpetuam
14 Scoops Power Bar Endurance blend
17 Salt Tabs
1 ½ power bar
8 goo’s (I think)
½ PBJ sandwich
1 ½ bags of gummy coke bottles

Calories Burned: 8325 (so says Garmin)

Baboon Butt…..Priceless!

Supporting him was a TON of fun, and it was hard work. We originally had planned on me meeting him just once every lap, but after the first one, I noticed there were two other spots I could see him across the field. He would start his lap and 15-20 minutes later I would see him on a long gradual uphill. This is where I did most of the handups to him. 15 minutes later, he would be on the other side of the field. This is where if he needed anything, I had 5 minutes to run to the motorhome and get it to him at the next spot. And then the last spot was 5 minutes later and then repeat. I quickly realized that I was not going to get to lounge around like I had in the past. Making sure the dogs got out to roam around could only be done in the 20 minute break, and I made them run with me several times to make sure we didn't miss Adrian at any of the stops.

I learned alot about support and from Adrian. He's stubborn and after 6 hours of riding and his continuous denial of having any real food, I learned that just bringing him options was the key. If it were in front of him, he would more than likely take it!! The race was awesome, and I cheered for everyone. All sizes were out there. I respected all the women that did the race. Some looked strong, and others reminded me of myself on the bike. Very slow, but having fun and just getting through it, one lap at a time.

Adrian worked hard for this and he deserved every minute of it. I'm soooo uber proud of him. Who knew that years ago when he got trampled by a horse and had bones sticking out of his knee and was bound to a wheelchair for over 6 months that he had this kind of greatness just waiting to seep out?? He's my motivation to become a better athlete. I love him dearly and can't wait to be there for more wins :) Next stop, to win in the Expert category. Way to go, honey. I'm proud to be your girlfriend and I truly appreciate being part of your wonderful moment.

Friday and Sunday - Saturday to be posted separately :)

2009-02-09T10:09:00.003-06:00

Friday - I took off work at noon and attempted to get in as many miles as I could before we were to leave out of town for Adrian's race. I got in 28 miles. I wish I could have done more, but was riding on a whim with no real map. I left Adrian's house at 12:45pm, rode down 360 to Las Cimas, then back up to Great Hills. Decided to take Great Hills to Jollyville and go down and back for a total of 28 miles. I don't know the area that well, and not comfortable going down the big hill on Spicewood Springs, otherwise I would have tried to get to Great Northern. Oh well. It was windy and I was excited to get on the road to start Adrian's weekend.

Sunday - Woke up and ran the 8 mile loop that Adrian had raced on all day on Saturday. I miss trail running. No iPod, just random thoughts going through your head. I missed running in the "woods" and feeling like you were the only soul out there. Good stuff. I think my running has improved from last years trail running. I'm excited to get back to it after the Ironman in June :)

OFF days, woo hoo!!

2009-02-06T07:38:00.002-06:00

Wednesday, I thought I was coming down with a cold. I woke up with a sore throat and just felt exhausted. No energy. I made it through work fine, but just didn't think running, then swimming would be a good idea. It would be a blow to me mentally to have bad workouts with the little progress I've made, so I decided to take an OFF day. I think I finally wore my body down with the new routine and it was asking for some rest.

Thursday, I felt better, but not 100% so I decided to take another day. I went to bed at 8pm. I even skipped watching Grey's. Woke up at 5am, and decided to clean around the house, pack for the weekend instead of going to swim class. I get off work at noon today, so I'm planning to get my 40 mile ride in this afternoon and then if I'm feeling good, I plan to get a run in afterwards :)

Tuesday - Core/Spin

2009-02-04T11:39:00.003-06:00

Time: 5:30pm
Location: T3
People: T3ers
Comments: 30 minutes of core... done :)

Time: 6:15pm
Location: T3
People: T3ers
Comments: Charles was the spin coach which was new for me. Class wasn't as hard as Chrissie's and Mo's normally are. I was able to do 99% of the class, except for the stand up portions. I'm getting better, but still need to build strength in my legs for that.

I woke up with a sore throat this morning, made an appt with doctor. I needed to pick a new doctor anyways because mine moved to Cedar Park and I'm not driving to BFE, so I switched to one south on Brodie, so it's close to work. I feel tired again and it's only Wednesday. I need to run and swim tonight and I'm pooped. I'm thinking I might just take the workouts easy tonight in case I'm starting to come down with something. We'll see...

Monday - Run/Swim

2009-02-03T08:26:00.005-06:00

Time: 5:30pm
Location: Town Lake Trail
People: Blondie :)
Workout: 30 minutes easy
Comments: I was exhausted all of yesterday. At work, I found myself yawning and just wanting to lay my head back on my chair to get a few minutes of shut eye. I thought about cancelling on Blondie, but decided maybe the short run would do some good. We met at the Mopac bridge, and just ran 30 minutes and called it a day. Good run, good conversation, great friend :)

Time: 7:10pm
Location: Lost Creek
People: T3 - Steve, Don (my lane partner), Vegas, Noah, Yvonne. I'm learning more names!!
Workout: 2800 meters of drills
Comments: I only made it 2600 and called it quits. The workout was good, and we did a ton of paddle/buoy drills which accentuates my weakling arms. I just need to get faster so I can finish the workouts. I'm still pretty slow and doing the entire workout is still hard to get accomplished because of time. The tarp was getting pulled on us last night, so we skipped the last 200 meters. Good workout, it's nice to get to know Don in my lane :)

Week 3 Totals

2009-02-02T09:41:00.002-06:00

This was the first week I've stuck to my workout schedule to a T :)

Running - 4 hours, 40 minutes
Cycling - 7 hours
Swimming - 3 hours
Core - 1 hour

Total: 15 hours and 40 minutes... no wonder I'm tired.

Sunday's Long Run

2009-02-02T09:38:00.003-06:00

Time: 7:15am
Workout: 18 miles easy
Workout Completed: 15.5 faster than normal
People: Chris, then fast Mr. Billy Goat Steve
Weather: perfect for running
Comments: I'll keep this short. I spent my entire run chasing Steve. We averaged 9:20's which is slow for him and fast for me for a long run. We did an out and back for the last 6 miles on the marathon course, then added some mileage on the trail. Good day, but extremely exhausted from Saturday's workout, then this one. Thanks Steve for pushing me!

Who works out for 6 hours???

2009-01-31T19:23:00.003-06:00

I do :)

Time: 8:20am
Location: Kiker Elementary
Weather: Cold at first, but incredibly nice for the rest of the ride
People: T3 & my honey
Workout: Long version of the Dam Loop & 30 minutes of running
Comments: I was pretty nervous about this mornings ride. The Dam Loop... eek. It's always been so intimidating. In my mind, only the elite, fast, "real" cyclists did this. Not me.

Adrian went for my support and we got down to the start at 8am since my group was leaving at 8:20am. I found Jane and the "Turtles" and we took off. The Turtles took off and it was just Jane and I for the first part. Ride was good. Jane was up ahead for most of the beginning part and I just kept her in my sight. We toggled back and forth. The ride down 71 was pretty scary. A stupid 18 wheeler honked at me, and I wasn't even in the lane! Asshole! On 620 Adrian caught me, and it was nice :) He was hanging with the A group, he slowed down for a few minutes to check on me, tell me he was proud, and he was on his way.

We met up at Walgreens on 620/2222, and Adrian was still there. For some reason the A group was all there. All of T3 was there. It was neat to see all the blue. I didn't wait too long, and got back on the road and everyone else seemed to follow suit. Everyone passed us, but it was nice. My honey gave me a high five and was off. Jane, Amber, and I finished the rest of the ride. The hills seemed to be long, but I couldn't quit thinking about how far I've come on the bike. I remember doing hills in the past and wanting to die. Today, I just took it one stroke at a time, and made all the hills. My legs never blew up and my nutrition was perfect. What an awesome day!

Got back to the car, and went straight for me 30 minute run. OMG, my legs felt awesome!!! Long story short, I got lost. (go figure!) Who gets lost on a 30 minute, out and back run?? Me :) BUT, my legs felt wonderful. I never remember this feeling from the past triathlons I've done. I glanced down at the beep of my Garmin, 9:45. Wow. After getting lost, I ended up with 40 minutes of running. 4.27 miles, 9:32 average. Whoopie!!!! I could have kept running. What a great feeling to the end of a good day.

I got back to the car, Adrian wasn't there, but we talked on the phone, and he rode home. We both had such great workout days. I did my first Dam Loop, and he got in 100 miles. Yes, he's a freak.

Good day! I can't wait for tomorrow's run. I hope to see my Rogue peeps.

I need more time!!

2009-01-29T22:23:00.003-06:00

It's Thursday night and I'm EXHAUSTED! It's 10:30pm and I know I need to be in bed, but I need some ME time, damn it!!! I've kept to my training schedule like clockwork. I have kept to my nutrition like clockwork, except for tonight. I got freaked out. This Saturday's long ride is the 50 mile version of the Dam loop. I've heard from more than one T3 friend that it's gonna be a hilly son of a female dog! Ugh! I talked to Adrian and he said he'd be VERY proud of me if I could get it done, no matter how long it took.

I'm excited, yet extremely nervous. This could take me FOREVER. Once my bike hits an incline, it immediately goes to single digits and I'd rather throw it into the road to get run over and just run up the damn hill!! But I need to learn to love hills since CdA is hilly. I got freaked out that my nutrition needed some tweaking tonight. I used my once a week splurge meal for tonight and loaded up on chinese, my form of carbs. I have a full feeling that I haven't had since I've been on my strict Meredith diet, excuse me, healthy way of living in the past two weeks. I'm hoping tonight's larger dinner will help me to not die on Saturday.

Time: 5:30pm - 7:15pm
Location: T3
People: Dionn, Carrie, Vegas, Michelle, and Noah. These are the names I could remember and got to chat with.
Comments: Core was ok. There was one new exercise I haven't done before that was difficult. I'm proud to announce that I did the plank for one whole minute, 3 different times :) When I started, just 3 weeks ago, I couldn't do it for 30 seconds, so my core is getting stronger!!!

Spin class was TOUGH! I had to stop 3-4 times, only for a few seconds, but my legs were burning and I couldn't keep the cadence up to what Mo was telling us. I hate that wierd, uncomfortable feeling I get on the bike. It was the, "I'm not comfortable in my drops, I'm not comfortable upright, I'm not comfortable anywhere" position. It's like a get antsy and can't find the right spot... ugh! I know it will come with time in the saddle. I survived and did the whole workout and proud that I didn't detour home.

I do notice that I DO NOT have enough time to get everything done. I'm too tired from these evening workouts to wake up early to get to work early. I can't work late, because I have workouts to do. I can't do anything at home, because I'm only getting home with enough time to shove down dinner, shower, and get to bed. I only wake up with enough time to pack for the day's workout, dress for work and eat breakfast. It's a never ending cycle of never feeling fully rested. I wish I had 3 hours extra in each day... I miss watching tv. I miss feeling caught up at work. I even feel rushed on the phone with friends, because I only have enough time for myself to survive to the next day. It's 10:36, an hour and a half past when I've been passed out, and I'm EXHAUSTED.

Taking tomorrow OFF, going to bed early.. and looking forward to tackling the ride on Saturday. Please, please, please let me survive the full 50 miles. I can do this... I can do this... This might be my cycling Soulbuster that gets me through the Ironman. "I remember that first time I did the Dam loop, it was hard, but I made it." Here's to positive and wishful thinking :)

Good night :)

Tuesday, Wednesday, Happy Day!

2009-01-28T22:25:00.003-06:00

Tuesday
Time: 5:30pm
Workout: 30 minutes of "Chrissie must be pissed" core
Location: T3
People: Too many that I still don't know
Comments: Core started a little late, but I was thinking it would be a short class.. but NOOooo. Chrissie made sure we went late to make the full 30 minutes. We did our usual split the class up and half do medicine ball and the others do the big ball exercises. I'm proud to say that I can now do the hamstring exercises with the big ball, that I couldn't do ONE of when I did the first class, so I can see I'm making progress, yay me! I'm still really slow, but I try really hard to keep the repetitions going and not to stop. In the middle, Chrissie went on this core, crazy, madman exercise where she didn't give us time to rest. We would do mountain climber thingamabobs, then straight into pushups, then straight into something else. It was great and all but I couldn't resist yelling out and asking her if she was mad or upset. She grinned, the class laughed and for the first time I felt included and part of the group :) I think part of my problem with the first three weeks was that I was afraid to be me. The me that moans and groans and is a wisecrack. It was a good workout :)

Time: 6:15pm
Location: T3
People: a ton that braved the weather!
Workout: an hour of spin.
Comments: Holy shit. Nuff said.

Good day :)

Wednesday
Time: 5:00pm
Location: Town Lake Trail
People: Me, then Blondie!
Weather: Chilly, but awesome to run in!
Workout: 6 miles total, with 3 at MGP
Comments: I started my run, did a warm up mile, then went straight into MGP for 3 miles. MGP mile splits

1) 8:56
2) 9:02
3) 8:59

Cooled down for a mile, then ran into Blondie and we ran the rest easy. Ended up with 6.57 miles and went to swim class.

Time: 7:10pm
People: In my lane, Don and I
Location: Lost Creek
Weather: F-ing cold outside
Comments: I can see improvement in my swimming :) I started off doing the windmill, and now I've learned the proper stroke. It was nice that I haven't seen Mo in awhile, because he noticed!! My stroke is incredibly SLOW, but I'm really working on form, and I can tell it's making me more efficient!! Yay!! Finished the entire workout with my new friend, Don :) My favorite quote of the day, "Go ahead, you're faster!" Only lasted for part of the workout, but I didn't think I'd ever hear those words in the pool being spoken to me. Don finished off the last portion of our workout up front, because I was beat, but it was flattering that for a moment, he thought I was "faster", hahahahaa! I can't wait for the day when I can jump up to T2, if that ever happens...

What a good day :)

2009-01-26T21:57:00.005-06:00

I'm not going to lie. I've been pretty emotional, complainy, and down right irritating these past few days. My poor Adrian had to go through not one, but two of my breakdowns over the weekend and had to hear numerous, "I'm not sure I can do this." He was perfect. Ok, maybe not perfect. The first time I started crying, he disappeared. Kinda funny now, but at the time I was like, "Where the hell did he go??" Second time, he just giggled and held me.

Shortly after, we went to Performance and got some cheap winter clothes for the bike. I ventured out on Saturday, alone to attempt the 60 mile ride and only made it 5 miles out and 5 back in tears because I was frozen. So we got a wind breaker, toe covers, real gloves, ear warmers, and some other things. He said the jacket alone would make a world of difference. Then before I left, he helped me organize my car. I now I have 4 totes in my trunk. One for misc. car stuff, one for running, biking, and swimming. It's made a world of difference in just today's training.

Time: 4:30pm
Location: Town Lake Trail
Weather: cool, but kind of humid
People: Me, but I saw Shawnda, and then Dionn in the restroom, ha!
Workout: 30 min recovery
Comments: I ran 40 minutes. I finally listened to what everyone has been telling me. It was hard, but I did it. I left the Garmin in the car. I only ran with my stopwatch. I vented to the friends I love most and got the truth handed to me. I'm not a runner anymore, I'm a triathlete for the next 6 months. It was hard, I had the Garmin on my wrist, turned on, and took it off, then looked at it again, then left it. I need to start running based on feel and not constantly looking at my Garmin to see my pace. Good run.

Went directly to swim practice, got there early and played on Facebook on my iPhone. Pretty large class, but it was nice. I got to see Vegas and chat with her for a few minutes and also Valerie, I think?? I'm awful with names, I think that's it. Also saw Jane.

Time: 7:10pm
Location: Lost Creek
People: too many, and I don't know their names :)
Workout: 2750 of all kinds of stuff :)
Comments: Tonight was a good swim workout. It's the ah ha moment that Oprah would say where everthing comes together. Chrissie and Maurice have both been helping me with my stroke. I started with the windmill, and now I'm finally understanding the real way. About half way through class it just clicked. My hands were where they were supposed to be, my butt was floating, I was gliding across the water :) Never mind, I was the last person in the slowest lane, I finally felt like I was moving :) Good day, to what started out to be another emotional one. Yay, for me!! Just need to stay positive and remember my friends are backing me up in their hearts.

I can do this!! (My new mantra... over and over)

Thanks Josh!

2009-01-26T10:08:00.004-06:00

Clearly, you can tell, I'm taking it easy here... And I wonder why I have calf problems :) You can tell I'm pushing off.. oopsie!

The last mile, after I realized I could still break 2:00. I shouldn't have given up so early on.

Better form :)

Thanks Josh, you're an amazing photographer. You always seem to get my "Oh my god, I think I'm going to die" faces :)

You're awesome!!

Thanks!!

To view his whole set, check out www.flickr.com/azulox

3M

2009-01-25T22:39:00.002-06:00

Race was great. It was nice to just run, on fairly fresh legs :) My running has been on the down low since tri training, and I'm starting to lose my speed :( No biggie. I didn't have a plan going into this race, other than I wanted to attempt to PR from my previous time (2:00:11). I kinda thought that since my ride didn't go as planned yesterday, that I would have great legs for today, but the reality is that my legs aren't as conditioned as they were just a month ago. Goal A: 1:50, which would have been my Half Marathon pace for my original CIM goal. Goal B: 1:55 Goal C: just to PR.

Here are my splits :)
1. 8:56
2. 9:43 - heard Clemmie, slowed it down and chatted with her for about a minute, it was awesome seeing her!!
3. 8:25
4. 8:42
5. 8:09
6. 9:10
7. 9:09
8. 9:16
9. 9:11
10. 10:13 - got super tired and realized I hadn't Gu'ed since mile 4, walked through stop
11. 9:42 I was starting to give up at this point when Steph and Matt caught me and pulled me in.
12: 9:05
13.1 9:20 - Thank you Stephanie :) She talked me in, helped speed my butt up to get in under 2 hours.

Highlights of my race: Dodging all the runners to go stick my tongue out at Matt and Amy :) Seeing (even though I might not have yelled out) Ken & Kate, John Z with pup, Glenda multiple times, my girl BFDee, Mae from the Northies, Nedra and Mr. Nedra, Carolyn, and several others. After the race getting to hang with (and hug) Kamran, Sisson, Ruth, Mandy & Victoria and Melodye.

Thanks again Steph, for getting me in :)

Final time: 1:59:02 - new PR, I've learned to never underestimate a PR, no matter how small!! 1:09, I'll take it.

I miss you, Rogue Forum...

2009-01-23T17:44:00.002-06:00

Oh, the days of living on the forum. I miss you, Rogue Forum :(

That's all I'm going to say about that...

Spin and Core

2009-01-23T13:12:00.002-06:00

Time: 5:30 - 6:00
Workout: Core
Location: T3
People: T3 people and Steve :)
Comments: Core was hard, but it's always hard cause I have NO core. Good workout.

Time: 6:15pm
Workout: Spin
Location: T3
People: T3 People and Steve :)
Comments: Spin was hard, but mainly because I have SOO much work to do on the bike. There was a TON of standing, and the only time I can spin and stand is when I keep my upper body still and spin, but I can only do this for a few seconds because my legs just burn, burn, burn. When I try differently, I feel like my legs aren't keeping up with the bike, like I'm over the gear. I asked Chrissie after class, and sure enough, the way I do it when I can only do it for a few seconds, is unfortunately the right way.. hmpf. I have a ton of work to do. Good class!!

Thanks to Steve for making the class fun. :)

Time to get serious...

2009-01-21T22:59:00.002-06:00

It's halfway through Week 3 and I need to quit lolly gagging. Maurice called me out tonight and asked if I went to Tuesday night spin.. no... then Tuesday morning... no... then Monday?? Nope.. he just shook his head. He's right, it's time to get busy. I'm not going to back out of this Ironman (as much as my heart says I'd rather just run) so I need to quit half assing this. It would really suck if I half assed this training, complained the entire time, then DNF'ed after all this trouble!!! So I'm in the game, I'm going to be a triathlete for the next 6 months whether I like it or not!

CdA, here I come!!

Tonight's workout
Time: 5:00pm
Location: Town Lake Trail
Distance: 6 miles
Workout: EASY

Time: 7:10pm
Location: Lost Creek Pool
Distance: 2600 meters
Workout: Tons of drills, but mainly worked on my stroke.

Comments: My run was awful. I had to stop after the first mile, almost quitted, but gutted out a VERY slow 6 miles. Headed directly to swim class. Got to chit chat with Steve for a bit, then did the swim workout. I need to start speeding up, or not taking breaks, because I was the last one in the pool and I missed completing the workout by 50 meters because of time, and Maurice (probably unknowingly) started pulling the tarp. Hard workout. My arms are sore. It's going to take some getting used to the new stroke. Maurice assures me that even though I feel like I'm swimming slower, I'm not...

Sunday Hugs

2009-01-21T10:52:00.002-06:00

I almost forgot...

I got to hug... (these were gynormous, 10 second hugs, they count for 5 people a piece)

Ruth
Sisson

High Five (while running)

Bruce

"What up, FOOLS?"

Kamran
Mike (even got a FOOL back)
Bruce
Jason

"Hi Priscilla!!"

Sisson

Top that, BaFaDuh :)

Katie's Game

2009-01-20T09:21:00.001-06:00

4th album, 4th picture :) It's from 2005, the Holiday Brew Runner party at Karen's. Glenda and Suellen...

Now who's it??

Weekend Recap, short version

2009-01-20T09:03:00.002-06:00

Saturday
Uverse was finally installed after 3.5 hours on Saturday morning.

Missed T3 ride, due to Uverse guy, rode with Amber a whopping 14 miles.

Sunday
Redeemed myself and ran 20 with Rogue. I ran by myself but it was awesome. I miss just running, TERRIBLY. I got to see the Fasties. Got to yell out FOOL a few times, saw Kamran, Mike, Bruce, Sisson, JoDee, Ruth, and Laura. I was only supposed to run 16, but I was feeling good and guilty for missing so many workouts previously.

Monday
I learned to flip turn in the pool. Adrian and I probably only swam 1200 meters, then we walked the dogs on the trails for a good hour, hour and a half :)

AT&T Uverse service SUCKS!

2009-01-16T22:34:00.003-06:00

What a freaking week. Between work and trying to get into a routine with week 2 of Ironman training and AT&T repeatedly screwing me over, I'm ready for the three day weekend!!! After sleeping through working out on Wednesday, Thursday didn't prove any better. I had a happy hour to attend for work on Thursday and despite my many, many declarations of "I have to leave at 4:45pm!!" it didn't work. I'm glad I stayed for my work, made good connections and it was great for my work, BUT it was day 2 of NOT working out.

AT&T when they originally installed my Uverse a few months ago, they couldn't install my living room. This was my one and only reason for switching from Time Warner to Uverse. When I had Time Warner, I used Tivo and only had one box. When I got my Tivo, I had a roommate, so I installed it in my room. Uverse would allow me to watch my recorded shows in the living room, without being bound to my bedroom.... that was 3-4 months ago.

They couldn't install my living room because they needed access to the cable box outside my condos, so I had to reschedule. I had already taken a day off work for the original installation and couldn't afford to take another day off work, because I just had too much work to do. Fast forward to last month. I called to schedule and the soonest they could get me in was over a month!! Dec 16th - today. The boyfriend was kind enough to come to my place for the install, so I didn't have to leave work, well... I had a blonde moment and thought the install was on Monday! He sat here at my place with my girls (he's allergic to cats!) ALL day until I called and realized I had the wrong date on my calendar. Totally 100% my fault.

Today, they were supposed to be here from noon to 2pm. Long story short, they didn't come! Adrian wasted ANOTHER day sitting here bored at my place while he had work to do. He called and complained (he's much better at that than I am, I'm such a pushover with customer service reps) and got me 25% off my bill, and rescheduled for tomorrow from 8am to 10am. Sucky part about that is, I have to miss my T3 ride. 3 days of NOT working out one bit, AT&T is about to drive me crazy, the boyfriend isn't very happy that he wasted two days AND his workout to accomodate stupid Uverse.

Not a good start for the weekend, but I'm hoping by 10am tomorrow, I'll be the proud owner of TWO boxes, since I've been paying for this for the last 4 months!! Oh, and I tried to save some money, since I don't watch tv anymore cause I'm either training, working, eating or sleeping.. and they can't downgrade me to the U100 without having a technician come out and switch out my boxes, what a freaking rippoff!!! I tried to downgrade from U300 to U200, and after holding for 30 minutes, there was no price difference. How could she not just tell me that in the beginning????? I pay $65 - $20 credit each month for U300, when she downgraded me to the U200 (since I can't have U100 without going through the hassel of a stupid technician/whole day off work visit) the price was $60 -$15 credit.. HELLO???? I didn't feel like waiting for her to change it back... so now after two days of having an upset boyfriend (not at me, but at the situation), 4 months of not being able to watch tv in my living room, literally HOURS on the phone with them, missed workouts, and missing the group ride tomorrow.. I have less channels, more frustration, and I'm paying the same price.

I hope tomorrow is a better day.

13 Hours...

2009-01-15T11:49:00.002-06:00

No, that's not my projected time to do an Ironman, it's the amount of time I slept last night! I went home straight after work, because I had forgotten my swimsuit. I was supposed to run 6 miles, then go to swim class. By the time I fought traffic to get home, I was STARVING. I ate a bowl of soup and a PB&J and decided I didn't have enough time to run AND swim, so I opted to go to swim class. Since class started at 7pm, and it was only 6, I decided to take a cat nap.

I laid down, fully clothed and decided a 30 minute nap would help tremendously, this new training and not having days off is killing me energy-wise. I laid down at 6pm and didn't wake up till 7am this morning. Wow... 13 hours. I feel like a new me right now :) With Team Rogue I had 2 days off, Friday's and Monday's. With Ironman training, I only have Friday (I'm making myself have a day) It's just wierd to go from Saturday's long ride, to Sunday's long run, to jumping right back on the bus Monday's with swim/spin, Tuesday spin, Wednesday.. blah blah blah... and working a full time job is really hindering my training. I'm tired. I'm glad I got my rest in :)

Run, Core, and Spin... Whew!!

2009-01-14T08:58:00.002-06:00

Run: 1 mile
Core: 30 minutes
Spin: 1 hour

I got my running schedule from Ruth yesterday, and woooo doggie! It's not hard, but having to fit in the runs with the spins and swims and cores is gonna be tough coordinating. Yesterday, I was supposed to run for 30 minutes, then do core, then do the spin class. I got to T3 right after work (I get off at 4:30pm) changed in my car, and took off running. I only got 5 minutes away and noticed there were a ton of cars driving by with the T3 stickers so I freaked out and turned around. I set my bike up, then only had 10 minutes till core started so I only got a mile in. 9:30 for the mile. It's a good thing I turned around because the spin class had over 40 people in it! There were a few that had to set up on the other side of the room, just to get a spot. Craziness. Class was hard, but I survived. I did have to stop spinning for a minute or two towards the end because my legs were on fire, but I didn't give up. :)

Swim, Pandora, & Netflix

2009-01-13T12:31:00.002-06:00

Workout: T1 swim
Location: Lost Creek
Time: 7:10
People: T3er's
Distance: 2900 meters

Last night was the first night I completed the total distance in swim class. I don't have paddles (need to buy some) so I did those drills without. Chrissie is awesome and kept correcting my form. Who knew I was such a bad swimmer. Yay me! I am still only in the T1 workouts, but super excited I could finish the workout. I was one of the LAST ones in the pool, but I finished and that's all that matters!!!

I'm hooked on the Pandora app on my iPhone, it's all I listen to now here at work, it's awesome!!

I also registered for Netflix, and what a saver!! Adrian and I rent movies ALL the time and we were wasting a ton of money at Blockbuster!! Looking forward to our new set of movies for the weekend :)

Tonight - short run, followed by core, followed by spin class... whew, what a night!

Week 1 Totals

2009-01-12T12:48:00.002-06:00

Monday - 4 miles - 40 minutes
Tuesday - core/spin - 1.5 hours
Wednesday - swim - 1 hour
Thursday - core/spin - 1.5 hours
Friday - OFF
Saturday - 40 miles, with wind - 3.5 hours
Sunday - 10 miles - rounding up to 2 hours

Total hours: 10.16 hours - not too shabby for the first week :)

Sunday Run

2009-01-11T19:47:00.002-06:00

Adrian got to a late start. We slept in and started watching tv. It was nice though. I think my body needed the extra sleep after my first week of caos. We didn't get down to the trail till 1pm and I was planning to do 15, but only got in 10.

I averaged 9:43's and felt great, legs felt great and but I don't think I ate enough over the weekend to fuel for this run. I did the 10 mile loop, then gave up when I knew the car was there. Next weekend, I'm going to run with the Sunday group to prevent stopping early.

Adrian got his 20 in and super proud of him.

Good end to a tough weekend :)

My first long group ride...

2009-01-10T21:17:00.002-06:00

I got a call last night from Sabrina saying she was going to ride with us, yeah!! I called Amber to invite her so we could all ride together and do a little catching up. Long story short, Sabrina couldn't go, so I met Amber and we got to the school in time to ride. We missed the Memorial ride for Erin :( The ride started out, and almost immediately Amber and I were dropped from the "17 mph and under".

I'm not going to lie, I'm a little disappointed in the T3 rides. I thought there would be a little more "group" to it, but unfortunately, if you're slow, you ride alone. I'm grateful that I invited Amber so I had someone to ride with. I heard from a few fellow T3'ers that the "slow" people are really fast. Oh well, I guess I just need to chalk it up and get better and stronger. I thought I would learn some gearing techniques or learn what my cadence should be during the wind, up hills, downhills, etc... but nope.

The ride was good on the way out, obviously, got to catch up with Amber and I thought we kept a decent speed, but the minute we turned around, we were going downhill, pedaling, and my Garmin showed 7.5mph. Wow. Hard stuff.

I'm glad that I didn't turn around in Buda, I'm proud to say I rode the whole 40. It took me 3:37, and my legs were trashed, but I did it :)

I can't wait till tomorrow... I get to run and run far :) Yay, running!!!