OOOOOOH my gosh my legs hurt, but man that was a good race!!

We, RunnerSusan, Massoman, and a few other RBF'ers met this morning to run the White Rock Marathon. RunnerSusan, Massoman, and I ran the half. All three of us had a great race. The weather was perfect and I PR'ed. I finished in 2:41. That is 11 minutes faster than the last time I ran a half. Here is my progress report:
2004--"The Half":
2:54 (13:21 pace)
2005 "The Half":
2:52 (13:09 pace)
2006 "White Rock Half":
2:41 (12:15 pace)

That is fantastic!! Way to go RunnerSusan who finished in 2:24 and Massoman who finished in 2:04!!! You guys rock!!

How can I be so stressed with cute faces always smiling at me like this??

Aren't they so cute???

Things are looking better!!

Okay so the job stuff is still hard to deal with, hence me running a half marathon without fully training for it. I was so tired yesterday after driving back from Austin that I forgot to get my t shirt when I registered. Arrrggghhh. Now I think I might have time tonight after I work at a little part time job until 5, I will rush downtown and pick my t shirt. Bleh. So here is where we are with the job stuff. FW rejected me. That was okay, I was not sure I wanted that one. Hoboken wants me so bad they have waited almost a week for a response. I think I might want that one, but I am not sold. Austin wants me, doesn't want to pay, or allow me to have any sort of creativity with my job. Also, I would not be allowed to coach to make up for the pay cut. I don't want that one. I will turn them down tomorrow. South Carolina, I want. I don't know if they want me. I really want that one!!! That one makes my heart skip a beat. I love what I have learned so far. Today, a different FW called. They want me. I will go meet their staff next week sometime after South Carolina. Everything hinges on what happens in South Carolina. So we have 3 choices: Hoboken, NJ; South Carolina (if they offer), and Benbrook, TX. Financially I must take one. I cannot hold out for much longer. If South Carolina offers, I will take it no doubt. Should they not, I will likely have to take Benbrook for practicality reasons. It is cheaper to live here, would not be that hard to move there, would not have to fly back and forth to see my husband on the weekends and he would not have to leave his job for the moment. Oh yeah, it is a nicer facility and well supported by the community. The pay will be close to the same, with FW coming out on top likely by a couple grand a year (when you consider cost of living). Hummmm, but then I will be stuck here, in the heat which is what I have been trying to get out of for the last 4 years!! What to do???????
Blog on friends!!

How about this for a change of scenery??

Okay this was supposed to be at the bottom, but you get the idea right?? Hotty hubby with a bald head....yummy!! Heehee!! This is Washington Street. The Y is just few blocks down from where I took this pic.

This is where the dog park is. Can you imagine this skyline?? We don't get this kind of thing in the Big D. BTW, I am convinced that the Big D is a mini me of the Big Apple. There were odd coincindences that made us feel like we were really in Dallas. Strange!!

This pic was taken from the Hudson River on the Jersey side. We were still in Hoboken. We went back later that night to look at the lights. Just so you know, the skyline goes way beyond the parameters of my camara. I just love this pic because of the trees. In fact these might have been the only few we ever saw while there. Hummm.

Running with Nikko is so much fun!!

She, next to my human partners, is the best pacer and motivator. If we are not running fast enough I get pulled along until we are moving at a speed that is good for her. On our last few runs, she has gotten tired and slowed down enough to nudge my hand. I think she is secretly looking for treats. Silly girl, I haven't carried treats on a walk or a run in quite some time. Wouldn't it be nice if the world revolved around you all of the time. She might actually think differently, she stays in a crate when we are not home. So far we are up to 5 miles at one time. She loves it. Every morning she watches me go for the door and makes sure I am not going to grab her leash. I get the cutest head tilt and ear perk. It is so hard to resist sometimes. I don't think the Y would appreciate me bringing her with me on the days I don't get to run. Nikko has been the top of disscussion today. I thought I had decided not to move to Hoboken, New Jersey. The Y there has a whole other idea. I told them that I was not sure if we could find a place for her there. He did not realize that I had an 80lb dog. That brings even more difficulty in finding somewhere to live there. Among other things about the job, that is one of the reasons we thought we had decided against moving there.

While we were in NYC we had a blast. I think hotty hubby and I walked for 10 or more miles. We saw so much stuff!! We had a blast!! I will post some beautiful pics!!

Blog on friends!! I miss you all!!

A soggy head

Okay, I now feel like I am underwater. My ears are so full of fluid. I am going to have to go to the Doc because, I think I might also be running a low grade fever. Yuck!! This is not good. I have 3 maybe 4 interviews in the next 48 hours and I am starting to feel crummy!! Not good I say. I did not run this morning. Runnersusan started it, she called first. I called second and Massoman told me that his BW was third. All three of us wanted to sleep in. It seemed that he was the only one who wanted to run. How is it that I can go to sleep with such great expectations, but a mere 7 hours later I am singing another tune. I walk around the rest of the day grumpy because I did not get a workout in. Arg!! This cycle is getting frustrating!! I have to go. I have a few workouts to get done before the night is over and my head is floating around!!

Blog on friends!!

Mad Dash

I ran in the 3rd annual Dorothy's Dash metric half this morning. I have decided that I really don't like to "race". I would rather just train and never race. I think maybe I have performance anxiety or something. Or.....it could be that 8 miles is the longest distance I have tried to run since like May or June. Hummmm....I wonder what made this run so hard??? I finished in a slow 1:38:16. At least that is what the official clock said. I think my G mini said something closer to 1:36:something. I don't remember. It said I ran 11:36's for 8.3 miles. Hummm. I was hoping for 10minute miles. I started off with the first 3 miles at that pace, then it just fell off. That particular part of the run is/was more hilly than what I was used to. My MP3 player also died before the 2 mile mark, so I was left to my own mental demise. Around mile 4 I had to pee, but there was no potties up until that point, so I had to slow down or run is soggy shoes for the last half. I also got very hot. I overdressed a touch. I wore capri tights, a long sleeve running shirt and a hat with gloves. (a baseball cap). When I finished I had taken my gloves off, rolled my tights up and took my shirt off. I was warm!! Yuck!! Well I suppose this run was a great warm up for the Turkey Trot (8 mile) on Thursday. At least now I know that I can complete this distance.

Also, I have fluid in my left ear. It is kind of like I have been swimming, only I haven't. I can hear it when I walk, talk, and swallow. It stinks!! I had Massoman's BW work on my sinuses yesterday, I wonder if that has anything to do with it???

Blog on friends!!

Job stuff is a bit overwhelming.

Okay, I have been so busy over the last 24hours!! I panicked because I did not hear anything on Tuesday or Wednesday. Thursday and today on the other hand...my phone has been ringing off the hook!! Next week will be nuts!! I am going to have 3 interviews and possibly a 4th. They range from Fort Worth to Chattanooga, to Sheridan (Wyoming), to Greenwood (South Carolina). What do I do if FW offers on Tuesday and the rest of these are all round 1 interviews?? FW, I don't really want...but I don't want to let it slip by out of fear that I won't get something else. What do I do?? How long can I table an offer?? Do I tell them I am interviewing elsewhere?? Argggg, I don't know what to do!!! Some help would be fantastic!!

Blog on friends!!

A super fast run and a super sore back part 2!!

I got up this morning with hope that my back would feel better. It does, but it doesn't. I know that makes no sense at all, but it is true. I can breathe and it doesn't hurt, but I still cannot look down at my feet or twist with out it hurting. I have put more heat on it and I am still resting a bit. I ran with Massoman and Runnersusan this morning, again with the hopes it would loosen up. Runnersusan and I went 3 miles and felt like it was awful. It was hard and we both at one point wanted to stop and walk. Out of fear that walking would hurt my back even more, I resisted and so did she. Lucky for the both of us because we finished in 28:27!! Wow!! No wonder it was hard, we were flying!! We saw a shooting star. It was totally cool. I am so happy that it is cold here and I am running the way I think I should be running. It is an awesome feeling.

Blog on Friends!!

A super fast run and a super sore back.

This morning despite my middle back shouting at me, I ran with runnersusan and donkey. I was hoping that the running would loosen it up. It hasn't in fact, it might be a bit worse. I have rested all day, taken Advil and drank tons of water and electrolyte mix. I am well hydrated. It is totally muscular, but it hurts!! I can't twist, bend, bring my chin to my chest or breathe deeply without it hurting. Yuck!! This has happened before and I don't remember if there was one thing in particular that fixed it. Hummm. More rest.
Oh, oh, oh our run was super awesome!!! We ran 3 miles in 29:23 and we walked a short bit due to the misbehavior of runnersusan's ipod, it would not stay on her arm. We were shocked because along with the ipod, donkey was quite a pill for runnersusan. It was great!! We need more runs like that!!!!

On the job front. No one has called back for a second interview, but it is only 1:00pm on Monday. It may be a few more days. Also, a Y in Austin called and wants to chat and set up an interview. That's exciting. It still gets very hot there. Hummm. My quest for colder weather is diminishing I am afraid. I will keep you all posted!!

Blog on friends!!!

Sleeping in is great!!

I chose this morning to sleep in instead of running with runner susan. I called her to make sure they were going to run, but when I did not hear back I took it as a sign that I was intended to sleep in. I will run today, just a bit later. Hummm. Only 3 kids showed up last night for tryouts for 16's. That's my age group. I was a bit relieved. I have to get through one maybe 2 more tryouts. I still may have a team, but it is not looking like it. I am glad because if we end up moving I don't want to have to leave a team. That would be so hard. I have an assistant just in case I do have to but I don't even want to do that. Yikes!! I have got to go to Petsmart. We are out of Chow for the Nikster. She's hungry and I must go. I will blog later.

Blog on friends!!

Ahhh, I am so tired!!

What is up with me?? I am so tired. I was tired all day yesterday and today I am wearing out quick. It is only 4:30 and I am ready to go to sleep!! What?? I have been busy though. This morning I met my cycling buddy and we rode our usual route plus 2 miles. We didn't talk much, but that was okay. I had time to just be. I reflected and thought about things hotty hubby and I need to start doing to prepare for a move. I still don't know where we will go, but we know we are moving. I also reflected on the amazing times I have had with my running, tri, and cycling buddies. Some have been good and some have been really bad. I am embarrassed to say I have not always been a good friend, but I have tried. Sometimes my maturity gets the best of me. What do you expect from a 20 almost 30 something??? We all have our times. I want to remember everything. On Friday I was at a Thanksgiving Feast at the Y for the AOA's and I just watched and thought to myself...I am really going to leave these people. I will miss some of the seniors but I am ready to go. Thank you everyone for all you have to for me!! You have changed my life. Thank you!!

Blog on friends!!

One sad yellow lab

Poor Nikko got left at home this morning. Hee. I had to go right to the Y and workout with a client this morning so she had to stay home. She gave me the saddest face as I walked out the door. RunnerSusan and I did have a stellar run though. We did 3 miles in 30:11. Yipeee!! We later did some lower body weights. I am going to be sore tomorrow but oh well. I had fun in the process. I think I might do some cross training in between clients. I don't know. I have one more tryout until Saturday night. Yay. Ha. I am excited.....um....really I am.

Blog on friends!!

I think it was rumor!!

No rain. Ha!! We must have been kidding ourselves. We live in Texas. It doesn't rain in Texas. Ha! Well yesterday was great!! It was good and cold. We rode 32 miles and took it easy. I saw some of my Iron girl friends from over the summer. They were trying to talk me into training for the Galveston 70.3. Hahahahaha!!! The funniest part, I am actually considering it, if we are still here. Hotty Hubby may join me in that training. I am totally fired up about that. He just needs to learn to swim better. Anyway, the 32 was great and just the right distance. I had to rush back and go to work at a craft store for 5 hours. It is pretty neat. They pay me to make scrapbooking stuff. How wonderful. This morning I was supposed to me the Trot group but they keep standing me up. This is particularly frustrating because I would have done the half with runner susan and massoman if I knew they weren't going to be there. It ended up being okay because I met massoman's BW and we ran 4.5 without taking a walking step. It was so good. I felt so good that I went home and grabbed Nikko and we went another 2.5. In all I ran 8 miles this morning. Yay!! I haven't felt this good in so long!! Fabulous!! I have to get to the grocery store and then tryouts round 2!!
Blog on friends!!

A good start.

I am off to a good start this weekend. What does that mean?? I don't have much to do. I would love to run in the Half this weekend, but I am scheduled to lead a Turkey trot group on a short run. This will be the first time in 4 years that I have not run it. Sad. Tomorrow I am going with hotty hubby and another one of our friends are going to the other side of Dallas for a rally. There has been much debate on which distance we should participate in. We were thinking 58miles, but then it might rain and neither one of my cohorts is into cold wet cycling. Yuck!! I tend to agree. Hmmm. So now we are thinking the 32miler. I will fill you all in later!! Happy Friday!
Blog on friends!!

I got 2 interviews!! Oh yeah!! Oh yeah!!

I have two interviews!! I am so fired up!! I was starting to think maybe I was not really qualified for the jobs I was sending resumes to. The first phone call was last night. The location is in Ft. Worth. The good news is that of all the places I'd want to be in the metroplex, Ft. Worth is it. The bad news...it still gets over 100 degrees during the summer in FW. The second is in New Jersey. I have never been there, but it sounds cool. (Actually probably cold.) Hotty hubby is not really responding,except sending me maps of where these places actually are. Hahaha! I don't know what that means.
On to my workouts.
This morning runnersusan and I with pooches in tow ran 3 miles. We were both very tired and walked a bit. It was a gorgeous morning. It was a brisk 38 degrees. Nice. It took us somewhere around 35 minutes. After that we lifted about 30 minutes. I will be sore from the weights.
I must go!! Blog on friends!

Happy Halloween!!

I hope everyone is having a great halloween!! I love this time of year!! Nothing to report on the job front, but it has been a productive day. This morning, despite the high humidity (93%), I ran 4 miles with Runner Susan, Massoman, his BW, Nikko and Donkey. It was hot. I walked a touch, but still finished in 46:32. Not too bad. Not so great either!! I hate it when it is hot. Late this morning a cold front moved through and even though it only dropped like 8 degrees, it feels like it dropped 20!! I love it when it is cold!! I don't have to tell you all that. You all can tell that from my past entries.
Blog on friends!!

Things are looking up!!

I have not had too many hits on the ol' resume, but then I have only sent out about 15. Runner Susan tells me it takes 20 to get 1 hit. I suppose I will keep trying. In the meantime I have been doing some stellar running!!! The weather, with exception to this morning, has been amazing. I think the cooler weather and decrease in stress with my other old job, I've been motivated to get some really great running in. Tuesday I ran with Massoman, and Runner Susan. We went out for about 4miles. RunnerSusan took her first tumble but saved the tights. I finished in 45:12. I will say I did not stop the clock when she fell, so I could shave a few minutes off. I don't know how much though. Today I met the crew again, minus Massoman (he went way earlier!!) and ran 3 miles. We ran easy this morning. It was humid. Like 81%humidity today!! This morning at 5:30 it was already 67 degrees. Tuesday was 50 degrees and 30% humidity. This folks is why I want to move away from Texas. I want cool/cold weather!! I don't want to be hot anymore. That gets very old. Keeping my chin up!!
Blog on friends!!

Too bad I was so relaxed!!

This is because just two measely days later I got laid off. I no longer work full time. Some of you may be confused by this because I work so much. I don't work for a company with a boss that has no idea what human respect is. I will leave it at that. I was totally shocked and upset. It basically went something like this: Boss: I have to let you go. This is a basic lay off type of situation. There was nothing you could have done to prevent it. Me: You're kidding right? Boss: No. I am very sorry.
So I went home and cried my eyes out and bawled into the phone to my hotty hubby and then gathered myself to work at the Y for 4 hours. All done with a big fat fake smile on my face the whole time. I learned the art of fakeness from my mother who performed it perfectly everyday of my life as a child. I suppose when you learn from the best, you become the best. Please don't confuse my sincerity with the fakeness I am describing to you now. I am almost never that way. I despised it as a child and now as an adult. I could not cancel my appointments. I need to keep a regular schedule to keep the finances in line if you all know what I mean.
Sunday I went to the grocery with calculator in hand and strict orders to only get what is on that list. I was quite embarrassed. I am sorry if there are some of you out there. In my part of town, you get stared at if you stand there and calculate how much your groceries will cost. It's not that we have to do this, I am just trying really hard to stay with in the budget. Now that I am not bringing in as much I cannot just spend what ever I want at the store. It is quite humbling. I am looking for another job. Hotty hubby and I have decided that we are ready to move away from here. We don't know when or where we will go, but we are pretty sure we are going to move. So if any of you out there know of some one who is hiring an Exercise Physiologist, please post me a comment!!! I could use all of the help I can get!!

Blog on friends!!

Has it really been that long?

Wow!! Sorry about that!! I am back from a weekend of relaxation!! Forced relaxation!! It rained and rained!! I should have run with Runnersusan on Sunday, but just could not bring myself to get out of bed. I then proceded to scrapbook all day. I mean all day!! It was wonderful. I even signed up for a Restoritative Yoga class. I forgot about it and did not even go. I plan to do some dreadmill running this evening, but I am not sure how far. My eating with the exception of this weekend and today has been really really good. But every now and then even I must cheat!! I am off to work for the evening.
Blog on friends!!

Last minute registries are not all bad!!

I decided late to do the Benbrook Women's Sprint Tri yesterday. I kept flopping back and forth on whether to do it or not. I did and it was fun!! I arrived early~around 5:40 to tranisition. I went by myself, so there was no stress!!. I got set up and noticed that there were only 3 bikes on my rack. I had all of this room. It was great. I sat and set up and then walked around to see if I knew anyone. I had heard rumors about some Fit2trainers going. I found 2, former Irongirls. It was great to see them. The weather was perfect. Cold at the start and fabulous by the end. I think it was only 70 degrees when I finished at 10am. It was a 300m pool swim so I knew I'd be comfortable. After that was a 13.8 mile bike ride. A 5K run followed the ride. I felt good the whole time. Exept my legs were noodley at the dismount line and I fell. Oops. Not a crash, just a tumble. Hahaha. Here is the break down with comparisons from Irongirl in July.
Swim 300m~6:36 (2:12 pace)
Swim July 500m OW~14:18 (2:52pace)
T1~2:05 (I thought I was quicker)
T1 July~2:34
Bike 13.8miles~47:30 (17.4mph)
Bike 20K July~43:28 (17.1mph)
T2~1:17
T2 July~2:44
Run 5K~39:48 (12:45's)
Run 5K July~45:31 (14:35's)

Overall time: 1:37:17
Overall time July:1:48:50

Progress feels so good!! I did not have any dizziness, numbness, or otherwise weird Horner's syndrome stuff. Yay!! Cooler weather does a body good!!

Blog on friends!!

Good Morning!!

Hello all! I am proud to report is has cooled off a bit!! Yay!! I am feeling better. I don't know what is wrong with me. I should just relax and enjoy running for running's sake. I should shift my focus away from times and more on the joy I get from running. I can do it. Let's see. Thursday's run was better. I think I have reported on it already. Yesterday I was inspired to do some interval training. I ran 1 mile (12:00) took a rest and ran another (11:45). I went to do some weights (seated ball chest press on cables and standing reverse grip rows) then back to do another mile (11:00). I took a short pit stop and ran one more (10:45). It was nice. I then trained a client and went to a different location and swam 2 x 500 (11:36~I think I counted wrong, and 12:58~see, what's the difference? I swam harder on the 2nd one???). I felt great!! This morning I met a small walking group for a quick walking jaunt to the park and back. It was a cool 59 degrees outside. That is like 20 degrees cooler than my run on Tuesday morning. Fantastic!! After the walk I loaded up the bike and went for a casual 18 mile bike ride. No pushing it, no high heart rates, no timing. Nice. I am now headed off to the other side of FW to register for my 2nd Triathlon. I have to call Runner Susan and tell her I can't run the 10 miles on the schedule. My goal was to get in 2 tri's before the end of the season. And here it is. Besides, for me right now at this moment the tri sounds like more fun than the 10 miles. I could still get that in....just after the tri. I am addicted to the multi sport training. It is fun. Well, I must get to FW and back before the big game comes on at 2:30!! GO SOONERS!!!

Boomer Sooner ya'll!!!

Chin up!!

I am feeling a bit better. It has been really hot. I hate it. I resent it. I will get through it. I am so incredibly far from BQ ing. I don't know if I will ever get there. It is okay. I don't feel like I am doing that much. I workout just about every day. I don't think it necessarily working out hard. Sometimes I do, but some times not. How do multi sport people do it?? I can't even imagine training for an IM!! Or even a half IM. I have been trying to cut back on working out, but it is hard. I depend on it to get through the day. It is my escape. FYI, no running today. 30 minutes of playing around on a volleyball court and 30 minutes on the eliptical watching LOST (highest heart rate=125!!!). I don't consider this too hard. I don't know, maybe I am doing a lot. I expect a lot from myself and I feel crappy if I don't workout. Hummmm. This too shall pass. I will continue to run and try to have fun doing so. It is running season despite the heat and that is what I will do. By the way I have not ridden my bike all week!! Some of you would smile about that. Hahaha!!
Blog on friends!!

Struggling a bit.

I have to be really honest for just a bit. I am struggling a bit. I don't want to run. I am not motivated to run. It is hot and I am really really angry. After I am angry, I am feeling guilty for being angry. I want to run with my friends. I want to hang out with my friends. I would rather get up at 5 meet them in the parking lot and wait for them to run the mileage and then celebrate with them once they are finished. How does one go from believing that she is meant to run and to touch other people's lives through running all of the sudden find no joy in what she is doing? It is not fun. It hasn't been fun for a year. I am going to end 2006 the way I began it. Lots of good intentions, high expectations, and complete frustration. I am at a bit of a loss. I am going to continue to plog through hard (for me) runs and easy ones too, but I cannot continue to be angry. I want to not feel sorry for myself, but how do I do that with out giving up the very thing I love to do? Be glad that I cannot cool myself on the right side of my body?? I am grieving. I grieving the idea that I might someday BQ. I am sad and upset and want to go back to the way things were. I was not heat sensitive when I first starting running with RunnerSusan. Those were fun times. Now.....not so fun. Not because of Susan, but because I am miserable. I wish I could find some magic pill that would make all of this better. For those of you that know me, know that this is not me. I don't like easy answers. I like to work for everything. I appreciate it more. Perhaps I just have to work even harder to over come this.
Monday workout: 40 minute indoor bike ride (stationary bike)
Tuesday workout: 2 miles running, 2 miles walking, and 2 x 400 in the pool (I had to do something to feel better about myself. The run this morning was rediculous!!)

I can do this. I will get over this eventually. I just hope it is sooner rather than later.
Blog on friends!!

Great morning for a run!

This morning I met the gang for our Tuesday run. Instead of track work we all made attempts to run negative splits for 6 miles. The temp was around 55 degrees and no wind. It was beautiful. I however in not in that great of shape, yet. I had to stop at 5. Actually, I ran hard for 2 miles, slacked off for 2 and ran pretty well for the last 1. I felt like I was running on jelloey stilts. My legs were tired. I have not built up the muscular endurance I need to be running that style and distance. I will have to work on that. I felt good, great really. Yesterday I rode to work. I rode really well on the way there, but PR'd on the way back (19.2mph). I have not ever ridden that fast before, unless I was going down hill. It felt great. I am paying for it today. My legs are sore and I am tired. Hohum. I am going to enjoy the rest of the day!!
Blog on friends!!

Finally a cooler morning!!

I love it. Fall is officially here. Did I say that a few days ago??? Well according to the calander, it is fall. Woooohooooo!!! Yesterday I rested. I shopped actually. I felt the need. Hahaha. Shop therapy, I miss my sis. I did get some super cute pants, a sweater, and all of it in a smaller size. Gotta love that!! I am fired up about my work paying off. This morning I was supposed to meet a small walking group, really small (today) only 2 of us. We walked 3.32 miles. After that hotty hubby and PM and I rode 18.5 miles with a strong head wind in 1:11. Nice work!!! Hotty hubby is going for a new look. We shaved his head last night. For those of you who know him, he looks quite different!! Hahaha. Hey massoman, you could ride too. I am sure we could find you a bike!! It is a cool thing!! I am having a great time with it. Are we lifting in the morning?? If so, could we meet at 5:15 or 5?? I am training someone at 5:45~5:50. Let me know!! Hey btw, how did the 15K go?? I forgot to ask!! Runner Susan, how was the Tour de Fleurs?
Blog on friends!!

Where has the week gone??

It is Thursday already. I have been very busy. Monday I went back to the neuro doc again. His answer??? Horner's Syndrome. I knew that is what it is. I did not need to spend all that money to have him tell me that. I already knew that. Argggg. Not sure what is next except that we just "wait and see".
Monday workouts:
Bike commute 6 miles
Brick workout: 3.32 miles
Tuesday:
Track workout with the gang (1 mile warm up, 1 mile for time, 1 mile cool down)
Bike commute 13 miles
Wednesday:
Off
Thursday:
3 mile tempo with the gang (33:27~11:11's)

Gray's anatomy is on...must go!!
Blog on friends!!

Renewed spirit.

It is amazing outside today. This morning I woke up with a spring in my step and smile on my face. I walked outside and knew exactly why I felt this way. There was a change in weather here. It is about 62 degrees outside and brisk feeling leading into the rest of the day. I walked Nikko and wore a long sleeve shirt and shorts. Even she had a frisky feeling this morning. Please forgive my last few entries, I am not sure what kind of slump I was going through. I miss my sister and spending a whole week with her and then back to nothing was a bit more emotionally taxing than I expected. Also, her wedding brought about feelings of sadness when thinking of my grandad. He passed on in 2002. I have felt such a deep sense of sadness, bringing me to tears, lately. I think it has passed. It was strange yet incredibly Karrie. It is the time of year. I am always this way, I think. Cooler weather reminds me of my past. I feel closer to my friends and have a wonderful sense of appreciation for everything. I love it. Finally fall is here. I feel it in my bones. We may have a few more days of warmer weather, but the mornings here will be cooler. Yes, indeed fall is here.
Blog on friends!!

Wearing many hats

I have decided that I am not entirely sure vacations are a good way to "escape" from life. I have come back to a ton of work and training to get done. I feel like I am back in High school or college and I have missed a few days and now am bombarded with stuff to get done. Uggg. I have had one crappy day last week where everything broke (computers at my full time job), I felt inadequate as a trainer and wife. I think I place too much emphasis on what I think a good wife should do. For instance, cooking dinner or at least having some idea of what dinner will be or keeping up with housework. Both of these things seem impossible to stay on top of. I am just too busy right now. Testing and training simulataneously picked up. I spent 3 out the 5 days last week exhausted. I bickered with Hotty hubby and had a brutally honest conversation with a client about lapband surgery or gastric bypass surgery. It has been a really tough week.
Hotty hubby and I went to FW Trinity trails yesterday and rode 26.5 miles. It was fun. I was so stinking hot. I hate the weather here and hotty hubby doesn't get that. I suppose we all make sacrifices, but I am getting really tired of always being the one who has to give in. I apologize for my poor attitude today, I am just sick of the weather and desperately want to live somewhere cooler.
Blog on friends!!

Wearing many hats

I have decided that I am not entirely sure vacations are a good way to "escape" from life. I have come back to a ton of work and training to get done. I feel like I am back in High school or college and I have missed a few days and now am bombarded with stuff to get done. Uggg. I have had one crappy day last week where everything broke (computers at my full time job), I felt inadequate as a trainer and wife. I think I place too much emphasis on what I think a good wife should do. For instance, cooking dinner or at least having some idea of what dinner will be or keeping up with housework. Both of these things seem impossible to stay on top of. I am just too busy right now. Testing and training simulataneously picked up. I spent 3 out the 5 days last week exhausted. I bickered with Hotty hubby and had a brutally honest conversation with a client about lapband surgery or gastric bypass surgery. It has been a really tough week.
Hotty hubby and I went to FW Trinity trails yesterday and rode 26.5 miles. It was fun. I was so stinking hot. I hate the weather here and hotty hubby doesn't get that. I suppose we all make sacrifices, but I am getting really tired of always being the one who has to give in. I apologize for my poor attitude today, I am just sick of the weather and desperately want to live somewhere cooler.
Blog on friends!!

5 shots, 3 glasses of wine, oh yeah and wedding

I am detoxing. I have had way too much alcohol, well only on Thursday and Saturday but who is keeping count??? Bachelorette party on Thursday in downtown St. Louis, there were free shots~what more could I say?? Wedding at a winery and the wine was free (well, to me anyway). Sometimes it is great to be 28 and behave like a 28 year old. I think too many times I find myself having to be the mature one. But every once in a while it is great to just go crazy and drink and dance and sing and behave like a 20 something. I was fortunate to not have a hangover either day. I consider myself lucky compared to some of the other girls that we were with. The wedding was so beautiful and my sister was so happy. The weather was amazing and did I mention that the wine was tasty??? Dinner was good, music was better, party was better still. I had so much fun. I did workout 2 times in 9 days. How sad. I was on vacation......riiiiiiiggggghhhhtttt. Hahaha. I will post some pics when I filter through the 200 I have. I am so not kidding. Apparently I have an affinity for taking pictures when I am intoxicated. Hahahaha. I should go now. I am getting up early to kickstart the whole half marathon training again. My goal is to run the White Rock half in December in under 2:30. I know I can do it.
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Hello everyone!!

Hello from St. Louis!!! I am officially on vacation, but not out of touch!! Sorry runnersusan for reminding you!! I heard you talked to hotty hubby! I hope everyones' run went well. I don't have any definite workout plans this week, except for a bike ride on Thursday!! Hotty hubby and bride sis are all fired up about going. If you guys think the weather in Tejas is gorgeous, try visiting St. Louis and Chi town. OMG!! Hotty hubby asked if I would want to live in Chi town?? I said yes. Don't let me fool you, we don't have any intentions of moving quite yet. I really want to, but he is not sure yet. Anywho, I will keep you all posted with pics and stories throughout the week!! The big wedding day is next Saturday. We are headed out for a Jazz festival in honor of Labor Day.

Miss you guys in Tejas!! Happy running this week!!
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Wow, it is has been crazy busy!!

Sorry I have not blogged in a while. I have had so much going on this week!!! I ran 12 tests, trained 6 people on Monday, 2 on Wednesday, 4 today, and will have 7 tommorow!! Holy smokes that is a lot. I set this goal for myself this week. I wanted to commute on my bike 3 days. I have only commuted 2 so far. I will have to ride tomorrow in order to make my goal. I think I have been fired up about the weather!! It has been so pretty. This afternoon was the first day all week that it has been hot. It did cool down relatively quickly this evening though. Cooler weather makes for a much happier Marathena. Here is a quick run down of what I have done as far as workouts this week:
Monday: Lifted with Massoman and commuted by bike 19 miles.
Tuesday: Track workout that was 1 mile warm up, 3 x 800's (4:18, 4:09, 5:30~okay I got really tired), and survived my first day with 6 tests in a row in over 6 months.
Wednesday: No workout
Thursday: Ran 3 miles with runnersusan and masso man (a stellar tempo of 31 minutes!!!) and Commuted by bike 13 miles.
Friday: Not sure yet, but I think I will ride (I have to).
I must have dinner and go to bed I am pooped!!
Blog on friends!

Celebrate health!!

This weekend I celebrated my health by going to a fitness conference. Watch out clients, I am really fired up!! This conference takes place every August. Last year was my first time to go. This year I knew what to expect and looked forward to it since January!!! It is information overload and physical overload. You take 11 classes. These classes can be lecture or activity. I did mostly activity classes. These are classes that we don't necessarily have a the Y, but are fun to take nonetheless. I have a ton of new ideas for my peeps!! Hahaha!! Thank you guys for all of your support. I am also finding myself getting out of this anxious, fearful, depressed lack of running funk!! I am excited about what is going to happen this fall. Who knows what my diagnosis will be. I may never get one and that is okay with me. It's been okay for 6 years now. My hotty hubby has been a true inspiration for me. He has picked up cycling like a champ. He rode is bike to work last week 4 out 5 days. He couldn't ride on Friday due to a meeting in the middle of the day (not at the school he works at). He is talking fitness, nutrition, and going on group rides with out me!! I am so happy for him. He has kept me focused the last few weeks. He keeps asking about BQing and when I think I might actually get there. I love it. I may never BQ and that is okay too. I guess what I am gushing is a sense of peace about where I am right now and being okay with the unknown. (At least I am trying to be okay with the uncertainty of what is next.) For now I think I will start putting together workouts for next week.
Blog on friends!!

I'm normal!!! Well....sort of.

Well folks it turns out that I not only have a normal looking brain and brainstem but it also looks like I have a normal spine as well. For those who don't know I have some pretty weird neurological problems of unknown origin. We, family and close friends, were all thinking for sure that I had MS. Even my neuro doc last month thought I was a shoe in for the disease. In July, I was restricted by my doc from running or biking "long" distances until we get a diagnosis. He said, "Go exercise but limit yourself to how long you are out in the heat and the humidity. Oh, and you need to scale back your marathon training and consider not running in New Mexico." I was in like week 12 of the schedule. Now I will give you that it was NOT going well, but I was doing it. My training has been at a total stand still since then. I have been running minimally, bike moderately, and swimming moderately. I think I have run/walked the regular 5 mile loop with runnersusan and massoman only 2 times since July. This has been tough. I had 4 MRI's of my brain, brain stem, and spinal cord. Guess what??? No MS!! No signs of past lesions, stroke or brusing. (I think I spelled that wrong, but whatever). I demanded that I get released so that I can go outside and play with my friends and try to build back to where I was. I am struggling psychologically with no limits to break through or marathons to train for. I keep hearing everyone talk about what they want to train for and run this spring and all I can think about is how I am not allowed to train. This has been my adiction for sooo long!! My doc's assistant told me that he could not release me to play outside; that I'd have to wait until September 18th (my follow up appointment). I told him that I was frustrated and was going to ride my bike to work tomorrow (which was actually today). He said he'd note that in my chart. Hahahaha!!! I had a great ride this morning and afternoon. Sorry runnersusan for not calling you last night. I was really upset that I did not get any answers from the MRI's. Today I am thankful I have no MS, cancer or tumors. There is something else wrong, but we don't know what yet. For those who don't know, I only sweat on one side of my body (from head to toe), and my pupils dialate independently. That is only letting you know about 2 symptoms. I could go on forever. I don't have time or the desire to divulge more info!! Bottom line....I am normal so far!! That is definitely something to celebrate.

Blog on friends!!!

Humility does a body good.

I must say I am hating living in Tejas more and more with every 100 degree day. My Jeep is on the fritz, again. bleh. It has been at the shop now for a whole day. I know that might not seem like very long, but it is the only car we own with AC. You got it folks, no air conditioning. Hotty hubby was kind enough to ride to work today and let me have the car. I figure not so bad. I tested patients today so I thought I only have to drive the hot car for a half day then I can get to drive the work van with ac. Not so much. I get into the van and drive it to FW and discovered along the way that the ac was not working. OMG!!! I walked into the Dr.'s office looking like I just got out of a pool. So much for professionalism. As I walked my equipment into the office I could hear the office people talking and whispering. I was humiliated. Not only am I super sensitive about only sweating on one side of my body, I now am making an announcement with my scrubs. It looked like I peed all over myself. Actually only down my left leg. Wait it gets worse. I finally get back to the office to drop off the equipment and let my boss know that the ac was not working and he suggests that I walk back out to the van and make sure that I have the AC button pressed in. What was this guy saying....I am not intelligent to know how to operate the ac a car??? Urk!!!! I have been hot and sweaty for days. I am soooooooo over the heat!! I am really and truely hating Tejas heat!! BTW I have another MRI on Thursday. Should have results on Friday!!

Blog on friends!!

If it is not a car, it's a boat???

Okay, first off let me say that I feel about 2 inches tall. My co-director was calling me on Friday night to tell me of a very tragic death that occurred in our area. On Friday, a 15 year old girl was struck by a boat on a local lake. She was tubing and another boat was right on the tale of hers. When she fell off the tube, the boat (which was being driven by an intoxicated man) ran her right over. The boat literally drove right over her little body. The very worst part of this story is that I coached her in volleyball two years ago. I knew her. I was friends with her. Hotty hubby and I walked around in a fog yesterday evening. How could such a terrible thing happen??? I can give you an idea. This morning after walking Nikko, Hotty hubby and I decided we'd head out to the lake for a swim. We were in the mood to wear the pooch out. I decided that since I was out there I'd get in a swim workout. So I told hotty hubby that I'd swim to the other point and come back. (totaling about 1 mile). I made to the other shore just fine. It was when I was swimming back that there was some trouble. I kept hearing a boat, and it sounded like it was really close and moving even closer. So I popped up and began treading water. Oh my gosh he is headed straight for me!!! Is this guy crazy??? I was not that far away from the shore. I was within 25 or so yards from the shore. What can he not see me??? I had on a black swim suit and a white swim cap. I began waving my hands and arms frantically. I was determined to get that driver's attention. Finally he gave me a wave back and moved away. You see when you are swimming, you can't just hop on the shoulder and avoid the boat coming right at you!! I need a bit more time than that. I am not that fast of a swimmer. I suppose I could be if he had not seen me. Anyway, he and the guy wakeboarding behind him created these massive waves that crashed me into the rocks along the shore. I cut my anke and had some serious trouble getting my focus back. I kept seeing that little girls face in my mind. In all different ways. I could see her setting the ball (ugly hands), her smiling at a match I went to watch, and I could imagine the accident. I couldn't shake it. I can only say that I am praying for her family. I don't know what else to do. I have sent a plant and a card, but what else can you do in this situation. I had to get this off my heart this evening. I have no anger for the crazy boat driver this morning. This is refreshing because last summer I had serious anger issues with car drivers and their disrespect for the active lifestyle. I have a bit more peace this summer. Perspective is a wonderful thing!!

Blog on friends!!

It is already starting.

Last night around 10:30pm I heard my cell phone ring. Hotty hubby comes in and says it's AM. I roll my eyes and look at him and say, "Season is just starting and I have already decided to set some boundries." You see, AM is my club volleyball co-director. OMG!!!!! I am not ready for this. Perhaps when it gets cooler and actually feels like fall I might get excited. I can't get past the heat.

Anywho...I went for a ride with my friend PM this morning. It was a ride that almost did not happen due to the fact that I had a flat and could not get air in my tube. I changed the tube last night and still couldn't get air in. So I showed up at her house and let her tinker with it. Luckily she was able to get air in. We rode in the heat (yuck!!) for 26.25 miles. We usually ride a flat out and back, but today we were intrested in something different. So we took a hillier route. It was a great change. I felt the heat though. Somewhere in between 18 and 22 I got cold. I knew it could not have been dehydration because I had set my watch to beep every 15 minutes and took a drink of water. We stopped at 12 1/2 to eat and rest. (I had a hammer gel and water). I told PM that I needed to stop and rest when I got cold. We did and when I got off of my bike I was really shakey. Weird. We sat awhile and I had a bit of electrolyte drink (Cytomax), and she insisted that I have a cookie. I am trying hard to avoid wheat, but she was persistant. I had one. It was sooo good. She handed me another and I could not resist at that point. I stopped at two. Hahaha.
Once I felt back to "normal" we went on home. I sat awhile at her house and poured ice water on my right leg and on both feet. I could not stop sweating for a long time. I went home and took the coldest shower I could. Not that cold. Also, of particular intrest...my psoriasis is back on my scalp. I guess it is back to no dairy and no wheat.

It is time to cook some dinner. Turkey sloppy Joes and sweet potato fries!! Yum!! BTW, I have mine on spelt.

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Just a quick catch up!!

Okay. Dusty~Prediction, yes 5K but at like 7 at night. Massoman~Yes Monday lifting!! I was super busy today at work, so far no workout!! Sad!! I just had the best Mahi Mahi fish tacos!! Yummy!!! Anyway, I am running with RunnerSusan in the morning and then it is off to group swim tommorrow night!! I love big plans!!

Blog on friends!!

Some great workouts!!

Monday involved a half hour of swimming, half hour of cycling (on my spin bike), then some light weights. Tuesday was an hour long boot camp class. (Unplanned, but I thought it would be fun!!). I am sore. This morning was a 5 mile run/walk (we more or less split the run in half and walked back). It was great. Hot, but good. I am tired now and it is only 5:30pm!! Bedtime????

Blog on friends!!

What a great weekend!!

I am learning that is one of my fave headers. Heehee!! I am back from a short but wonderful weekend in St. Louis. I spent time with my sis. We put together wedding stuff. For those of you who have followed for a while, this is a different sis than the one who just got married in March. I have two sisters and two brothers (in laws). We did absolutely no working out and ate some really horindous foods!! I broke all of the rules this weekend. Oh well, you gotta live a little every now and then, right? Humm. I got stuck at the St. Louis airport until 10:30 last night. I was supposed to fly out at 6:50 and be home by 8:45. So much for that. I got to bed at 12:30 or so. Yuck!! I was really tired.
Tonight I met my fellow fit2trainers at the lake for a swim. Only, I figured no one would go due to the rain we got this afternoon. So I moved my client to back to 6 instead of 5. We started early and I drove over to the lake to find that they were in fact swimming. I got in a quick as possible and did a couple of drills. Actually everyone did a couple of drills for me since I was late and they were about finished. I appreciated it a ton!! I am learning to site better and less frequently, only I have a tendency to site the wrong person. We went off course a bit. Hey I am still learning. It is okay for now. I will get better. For now I want to get on my spin bike and work of some of the nasty food I ate.
Gotta go for now, I made the mistake of telling one of our coaches that I might head out to the track in the morning at 5:30am. I've got to ride then go to bed.
Blog on friends!!

Tons of workouts!!

I have been busy. Despite my perscription for a slower training log I have persisted through some great workouts. Tuesday Runnersusan and I spent some time swimming and running. I had a great time. It is always a nice change of pace when I get to go to her gym. It feels like another world. Last night I talked to my mom and then felt compelled to run butt off (5 miles in 59:30). She went on about possibly having cancer instead of MS. This prospect made me want to throw up. She had a point. Whatever kind of cancer she had been researching sounded devestatingly similar to what my freaky symptoms are. Bottom line, I am still more anxious than I am willing to admit out loud. I don't know what is wrong with me, but I do know this....I have the healthiest brain my neuro doc has seen in years. So what ever is going on is not in my head. Hahaha. I have to laugh you know. I am off to have yet another MRI of my spine next week sometime. We will all have to see what happens next.
Tonight I needed to swim, and swim for a long time. I needed a great workout. I had one. I warmed up with 100m. I was being agressive, I know, but then I swam 4 x 400, and cooled down with 100m. It was nice to get out of the water tired. Why is it so much easier to transport myself to another world when I am swimming than when I am running? I just get lost in what I am doing, breathing, counting, looking, and so on. The mind wobbles.
Must head to bed.
Blog on friends!!!

Great swim workout!!

Tonight I swam with my friend PM. I did a 100 warm up, 5 x 100 (in 2:00 each), 400. It was a great workout.

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I am famous!!

Hahaha!! My friend Calley emailed me and told me I am on the first page of this photographer. They did the pictures for the Irongirl Triathlon.

http://www.asiorders.com/view_event.asp?EVENTID=11328

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Here's the news!!

We are Iron Girls!! This is a pic of some of my teammates from my tri group. We had sooooo much fun!! The one on the end did not actually get to complete the tri on account of a cycling accident. We missed her out on the course.
The swim was great. I finished in just over 14 minutes. That was fast for me. It was nice and cool outside on Sunday morning. The water was warm but the air was cold getting out.
Feeling refreshed I transitioned slow, but felt quick (2 minutes) to get on my bike. Unfortunately someone knocked my helmet off my bike and broke the viser. That is why it looks weird. Anyway, I pushed as quickly as I could through the 12.76mile ride. I finished in an unbelievable 43 minutes (something like 17mph). Let me tell you all this, I HAVE NEVER RIDEN THAT FAST, EVER!! I felt great but was getting hot. I had so much fun going that fast. At one point, I was going so fast I was afraid to take my hands off the handle bars.
I walked the first half of the 5K because my legs were noodley. Yes, that is a word~a very scientific word. Hahaha. Anyway, because it was getting warm and I had not practiced enough brick workouts I needed extra time to adapt to the transition. I was so happy to cross that finish line. I felt amazing. I was excited that I had actually completed it. My first tri!! In all I finished in 1:48:49. I was faster than I had predicted. I told my family it would likely take about 2 hours. I really had no idea how long it would take me.
My family had so much fun. Hotty hubby, my mom and dad were all present and accounted for. They said that they could totally tell just how much fun I was having because everytime they saw me I had the biggest smile on my face. They also had a great time. My mom mentioned that the environment of a tri was more relaxed than that of a marathon. We all had a ton of fun. I am definitely addicted!!

Blog on friends!!

Ohhhhh, my back is killing me with all of this pressure and guilt!!

Okay, I was supposed to go to the track party this morning at 5:30am and I chose not to go. I called RunnerSusan at 5:30 to tell her to relay that I would be sleeping an extra hour and then I'd head off to the trails. I needed to get in 18-20miles today. I figured trails then a dip in the lake~what a morning. Too bad I decided to torture my hotty hubby with a like 2 hour snooze session. I felt really bad for about 30seconds. Hahaha. I did not get up until 8am. What is my major lack of motivation problem. I feel uninspired to run today. Swim?? I am up for it. Ride??? I am up for it. Run??? No way!! Could it be the oppressive heat? Overtraining? Overwhelmed by this weekend and the high mileage? Likely a combo of it all!! I am looking at my calander and am stumped by when I can get this mileage in. Perhaps on Thursday. The only problem....recovery. Thursday to Sunday~would this be enough recovery? It will have to be.
Hey Massoman, I have been thinking about the answer to your question. I think bleachers would be a suitable switch for lunges and squats, the only prob...bleachers are a form of Plyos. Becareful and give yourself time for recovery. Haha, listen to me....do as I say not as I do!!! You may consider cutting back on mileage the day of and after for rest's sake. What a calorie blasting workout!! Following in the footsteps of Fireman Ken huh??? Way to go!! Sorry for being such a slacker!!

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6 days, 5 minutes, and 49 seconds left!!

Alright guys that is all I have left before my very first tri!!! Yippeeeee!!! I am well prepared and so incredibly excited!!! Over the weekend, the Irongirls spent some time getting to know the course. WOW!! Not wow as in it is the most incredible place ever but, wow as in this is really here....I am really going to do this!! I am so fired up!! My family is coming in and my hotty hubby is going to be there!! My workouts this weekend were light. We rode the course and ran the course in Las Colinas on Saturday. I actually hung with the lead group on the cycling portion, right up until I had to make a pit stop. Luckily there was filling station along the course near the end I was able to stop at. I was shocked that I was able to hang with that group!! I think we were averaging 14-16mph. Yes!!!! It is great what a good bike will do for you!! Also, the Irongirls noticed that I got a new bike. That was cool!! They had only seen my old bike once or twice!! I was glowing inside that they noticed!! Anyway the running part was way hot and I was afraid of pushing too hard without anyone there so I walked half the course. I must say, there is not much shade. It will be miserable!! We will make it though and we will do great!! Yesterday, hotty hubby, PM, and I went for a short and easy ride. We pushed the pace a bit and I think it upset hotty hubby. We finished our regular route in a minute quicker than last time. Hotty hubby rides a MTB with big knobbies, so he has a hard time keeping up. We spent time yesterday talking and looking for some different tires for his bike. He will feel better when we get those on. I have to jet off to work, so I will check in with you all later!!
Blog on friends!!

Not much going on...

Monday was a recovery day. That meant no exercise. And that was that.
Tuesday I ran 5 miles in 52:50. After training clients I swam. I went to the gym and swam about a mile~just under. I actually did not sleep well last night, so I am groggy today. I had figured that I would have slept better after a swim, but I guess not. Today I procrastinated myself into a run only day. I was supposed to swim again, but I just did not get it done. Oh well. I did however ran off some anxiety over my Dr.'s appointment on the 24th. Those close to me know which Doc I am going to see. I will fill the rest of you in later. Let's just say this is something I have avoided for a really long time. I ran my scheduled 5 miles. I watched "So you think you can dance." Pretty good show. I enjoyed it. I finished in 58 something. I just wanted to run off anxiety. I was pretty successful. Tomorrow is 13 miles. I think I will run half with the tri group and the other half on the trails. I could use some change. Heehee. I am also overdue for another swim. I would like to get it in after training some clients.
I am tired for now and Lost reruns are on, so I should go.
Blog on friends!!

Funny Hahaha!!

I thought some of you would get a great kick out of this!!! Especially all of you tri babes out there!!!
BTW: It is not really like this. (For all of you who have not been bitten by the tri bug yet...)

http://weshobsonperformance.com/images/video.mpeg

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It's all about strategy, right??

Let me fill you all in. Yesterday was a big workout day!!! I started off with a 5 mile dreadmill run (52:30). I trained a few clients then went home to rest. I still had a brick workout ahead of me. This for all who don't know is a bike with a run immediately following the bike. I rode the spin bike for 1 hour then beat the rain and ran 3 miles. I was pooped!!
This morning I ran my long run (18 miles). I got up early and went to WR lake and made one loop (9.2miles) then went to the Jeep to refill water and Hammer gel. I finished up as quickly as possible--only it was at a snails pace. I averaged 15 minute miles. I am left feeling irritated and sore!! So one, marathena, is left to ponder what it will take to shave approximately 3 minutes per mile off her time in let's say 8 weeks??? Will it be enough to just lay off the other training?? By other training I am refering to the swimming and biking, brick workouts and duathlons??? The simple answer would be a loud YES!!!! Ummm, with that said I also did a swim workout tonight with the Irongirls. I am way tired!! My right hip is bugging me a bit. I am not sure if I need an adjustment or rest or what. Probably both. I will have to make an appointment with Dr. Voodoo. It has been awhile any way. I gotta go!!
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Happy 4th Y'all!!

I want to say happy Independence Day to all of yall out there!! It is rainy here in Tejas. I hope we will get to see some fireworks this evening.
Last night I met the Irongirls for a swim workout at the PC. It is this swanky club only the most beautiful people in Dallas get to workout in. Thank goodness, I am one of those people. Hahahaha!!! How disgusting. Heehee!! It was a great workout. I have been feeling like a slug lately, so it was a good motivator!!This morning was the Flagpole 8K. It was pleasantly cloudy and a touch cooler than last year. It was a small race/run consisting of only about 200 people. I finished in just over an hour. I averaged 12:08's. Slower than I wanted but still under 13's. Glad to have it done. I am anxiously awaiting an 18mile run, 27 mile ride and a short duathlon. What a busy week ahead!! Enjoy the fireworks yall!!
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What a great day!!

I need to catch up. I must warn you all though, I am back to my normal happy go lucky, perpetually positive self. Thank goodness. All of those deep thoughts are a bit overwhelming. I agree with Robtherunner though about his comment on my last post. I don't think that the running is my purose so to speak but it is the relationships that I build through running that might the right path. Anyway, I digress.
Friday
Open water swim. I did not feel that great in the water. I struggled the whole 500m. The water was great, no huge waves. I did it only once.
Saturday
Mock Tri. I had a crappy night's sleep. Woke up around 4:15am and could not go back to sleep. I finally got up around 6:00am and got ready to go meet the Irongirls. I went down stairs to load up my bike and forgot Nikko's crate was still in the Jeep. It is usually hotty hubby's job to take the crate out. Anyway, since it was 6:30am (by now) and he was asleep I made a valient effort to get it out when I sliced my finger open. I remember thinking, "yeah, this is a great way to start the day!!" Blood running down my hand, I was furious and still very tired. I got the crate out and ran upstairs to clean my hands up. I was awake and ready to go. I was not about to let this get in the way. I finally hit the road around 7:00. We had a transition clinic for the first hour. I had no idea how technical this was. Everything has to be stacked a certain way and in such a small place. Oh, and your bikes have to be lined up a certain way. Also something I did not even think about. Finally around 9am we started our mock tri. We started with a swim. That was interesting because this was the first time we had a "start". We all lined up and then took off swimming. I can tell you that the middle of the pack is not where I wanted to be. It freaked me out a bit when I kept getting kicked and hit, but I just slowed down and did the breastroke until I was able to calm down. Finally when everyone sort spread apart, I was able to pick back up with the swim. It only took me 14 minutes. (This might be really slow for some of you, but remember this is my first tri--I am a bit anxious.) We got out and ran to our bikes. I took a little longer than I wanted to wash off my feet and get my shoes on. I was off quickly though. We rode this 11 mile route. I think it took me just under an hour. I kept getting lost (missing arrows and such). I did not print the directions because I was under the impression that we'd all be together. I figured I'd just follow everyone....wrong!!! I was by myself for awhile, but at one point I heard someone screaming out. I looked back only to find I was off course. Our coach sort of floated around between riders to try to keep us on track. He'd give me directions and I would forget them before he was finished telling me. I just kept getting lost. A lot of stopping and turning around. I don't think I rode as well as I could have. Also, I was getting pretty hot. I wore my black tri shorts and a black sport bra. Bad move!! Even though I was half naked, black is still not a good choice. I figured since I was wearing very little color would not matter. I am changing my opinion. Anywho. By the time I was finished with the swim and bike it was 10:30 or so. I am telling you, it was hot hot hot!!! I opted out for the run. There was no shade and one big hill. I am wondering if it was the black, the heat, not enough sleep, cramps, not enough fuel or food the night before that caused me to crap out. One other Irongirl skipped the run as well. I was left feeling proud, guilty and freaked out. I was proud that the swim felt easier than the bike (usually the easiest for me). Guilty for skipping the run. Freaked out about how I am going to make it through the triathlon. This is the first time I am second guessing myself. I hope I will be fine. I have made some adjustments to my trianing to get me out in the heat a bit more. I have registered for an 8k on Tuesday morning, 27mile ride/rally on Saturday and a short Duathlon on Sunday (2mile run/9.6mile ride/2mile run). I am forcing myself to get acclimated. I have also invested in trying a few electrolite mixes. Heed, ELoad, and Endurolytes (caplets). I have tried Heed before and wasn't crazy about it. Never tried Eload. I have tried the Endurolyte powder but also, wasn't crazy about it. I tried the Hammer products during running but again wasn't crazy about them. I am curious about how they sit on the bike.
Today
My friend PM, Hotty hubby and myself rode 18.2miles this morning. It was gorgeous. There was nice breeze. We met at 8:00 and rode to the Gaylord Texan. That is always a nice ride. Hotty hubby struggled a bit. He is feeling under the weather (sore throat, runny nose and he says his lungs burn a bit). I am wondering if it is allergies?? Likely. Anyway we finished in 1hour 19 minutes and 37 seconds. My G mini said 13.7mph, PM's computer said 13.8mph. I did try out a new bike this morning and loved it!!! It is older and way modified so to tell you what kind it is would not be of much help. It is a lot lighter and smoother than mine (which is in the shop being worked on). I might invest in it. I don't even feel like I worked out today. Legs are great, back isn't sore anymore and cramps are gone (for the most part). I only wish I could have done the mini tri today instead of yesterday. I feel so much better. Oh, just for my own sake of journaling, I must review the bra I tried out. I wore a yellow and white New Balance bra with clasps and mesh on the back. I have a red and black one already but remember I am trying to avoid black. I like it. It came as a recommendation from a sponsored triathlete. I did notice a difference in temperature. So that was helpful. The only thing I was not crazy about was the cleavage factor. I am a fairly modest woman and don't want all of my goods just hanging about. The other thing I was worried about was the see through factor. When it gets wet, will it be see through? This reminds me of a Friends episode wear Monica is singing on a stage in a bar full of men. They are just cheering her on and on so she stays up there. Chandler walks in and sees her on stage and immediately runs up to there too. He starts standing in front of her and getting in the way. Monica starts to get really mad because everyone is still cheering her on. Finally Chandler tells her why they are all actually cheering for her. Her shirt and bra are totally see through and she has been showing her "headlights" to a whole bar full of men. That is really why they were cheering her on. She was humiliated and ran off the stage. Let's just say I am not looking for that kind of adventure. Hahaha!!!

Blog on friends!!

Intresting thoughts for the day

I have been reading this book called: If you want to walk on water, you've got to get out of the boat. It is by Robert Ortberg. It is very interesting. The topic of the book is finding purpose in your life and discovering what it is that God has called you to do. I suppose I am craving a bit of reality today. Hmm. Anyway, I have spent the last 2 years or so trying to figure out what my purpose in life is. I am not depressed, sucidal, or insane. I just am curious if what I am doing right now with my life is what God intended me to do. I think so, but am I? I think about my passions~running, fitness, relationships, physical challenges, the myth of limitations. Are these gifts from God or are they imposed passions that I have forced to fit into what I think my life should be. Some of you out there may be thinking; whoa Marathena this is so deep. I tried to warn you all I am in a bit of a philosophical mood today. I am left wondering if running, training, and triathloning is my calling. And if it is then what about testing patients? How does this fit in? I suppose through the fitness and health aspect, but it is not something I enjoy and wake up excited to do every couple of days. In this book, the author talks about how sometimes your calling is not something you love or are even good at. Does this fit that category? I am over reaching I am sure. I have no intentions of changing or overhauling my lifestyle or job situation. I am merely questioning my reality. I actually take much pride, joy and fulfillment in what I do every day. Even if I complain about how tired and worn out I may be.
Here are somethings that have triggered these thoughts:
Peter answered him, "Lord if it is you, command me to come to you on the water. " He said, "Come". Matthew 14:28-29.
"The line between 'Thou shalt not be afraid' and 'Thou shalt not be rediculous' is often a fine one and not easily located. Knowing when to get out of the boat and take a risk does not only demand courage; it also demands the wisdom to ask the right questions, the discernment to recognize the voice of the Master, and the patience to wait for is command."

I think this is particularly intresting because I have been told or asked if I am being rediculous about running. Is running 26.2miles or further for some of you rediculous? Or is it what we are called to do? When we bump up against failure is this some sign that we have missed a turn or have been misguided? Hummm....What are we afraid of? Failure? Isn't failure a big part of growth and maturity? Wow, these thoughts are shocking to even myself. If running is truely my passion, gift, my calling; then my excitement over conquering 12 miles could be explained.

As Arthur Miller says, "It's the lifeblood of a person, the song that her heart longs to sing, the race that his legs were born to run...There's an electricity associated with giftedness. Give a person the chance, and he will jolt you."

Wow. I can only hope that I have that kind of impact on the people I work, train, and run with.

Psalm 19
In the heavens he has set a tent for the sun, which comes out like a bridegroom from his wedding canopy, and like a strong man runs its course with joy.

"I love to think of the strong man--a champion, some translations put it--exulting in the race. He knows he's going to be taxed and stretched; he knows it will take everything he's got. But he loves the race. He relishes the challenge. He competes, not for the trophy at the end, but for the love of the game."

If you are truely compelled to run the race as I am, then this strikes you at the very core of your spiritual being. I know for sure the first time I read it, it struck me that way. As I sit reading it to my hotty hubby tears start flowing from my eyes. Why? I guess you could say I am an emotional being.

"I am convinced that if I face up to acknowledging the limitations that pain me most, there is enormous freedom and joy on the other side."

Jesus put it like this: You are the salt of the earth. You are the light of world. Others have come before you. Others will come after you. But this is your day. You are on a mission from God.

How is your mission going? Are you on the right path? Are physical rewards clouding your path? I am on a mission. Are you??

Headed in the right direction, I think.

I can't believe it has been almost a week since I've blogged. Hmmm.
Monday:
I lifted with my friend Massoman and swam. I was a bit sore from lifting. True confession of a slacker in that area I suppose. My swim could not have been better. I am working so hard in the pool. I completed a big ladder, again. 4 x 50m, 1 x 100, 1 x 200, 1 x 300, 1 x 400, 1 x 300, 1 x 200, 1 x 100, and 4 x 50 cool down. I was a bit sunburned and am showing the true summer badge of training (cycle short line and a swim cap line). That is so hot!!! Hahahaha! Not to mention the ultra sexy sunglasses/goggle eyes.
Tuesday:
I instated a bigger track party. There were 5 of us (BC, JM, Massoman, his BW, and myself~runnersusan slept in and called later to tell me she was sorry she didn't make it). It was a gorgeous morning in FM Tejas. I think it was like 65-67degrees with very little humidity. Fabulous!! My job was to run a 1 mile warm up (12minute mile), 4 x 800 (3:40, 3:40, 4:00, 4:03~smokin' fast!!!) and a 1 mile cool down (12:30). Oh and I was supposed to walk/job 400m between each 800. Since it was so beautiful outside I decided to add this track work onto a long run for the week. I know, or should I say realize, that this is in some way cheating, but I did it anyway. I left the track and headed over to the trails at the Y. I completed half of it (4.75 miles) to round out 10.75 miles in 2:20. I headed home, worried that I had not heard from hotty hubby and checked in. Only he wasn't home. Apparently he and Nikko were out enjoying the unseasonably cool morning. I ran to the fitness center determined to get 12-15 miles in. I jumped on the treadmill to completed 1.25 miles (14minutes). I decided I was done. I did 12 miles in 2:34 (this includes the superfast track workout). I am okay with that.
Wednesday:
Hotty hubby and I went for a bike ride last night. Another fantastic evening. The last 3 have been so pretty and cool. Maybe not cool, but not humid I guess I should say. We rode our usual loop in Coppell. (10miles). I had picked up a movie to watch while spending my time on the spin bike so when we got back I still owed 30mintes of riding. So we popped in the movie (Failure to Launch~kind of corny but still good) and I topped off the ride. Wooohooo!! I have not missed a workout yet.
Today:
At the risk of sounding like a slacker~haha~I slept in instead of getting up and heading over to WR lake to run with the group. We are supposed to run for a total of 40-50minutes with pick ups in the middle. (Warm up 10 minutes, pick up for 3, slower for 2--repeat 5 times and then a 10 cool down). I wanted to go with the group to ensure I would not crap out or slack off. I have to make the very best of these shorter runs if I have any hope to PR in NM. Whoa, too many abreviations. Hahaha. Oh well, I am let to my own demise.

Blog on friends!!

A blast from the past and sweet stress relief!!

Well, I am back from my HS reunion. It was a good time. We kicked off the weekend with a music fest and then a breakfast with a tour. We walked around our newly remodeled high school and talked about how none of us knew where the cafeteria is or was. Hahaha. Saturday night concluded the reunion with a relaxed cocktail party. There were a ton more people there than I thought there would be. I saw some people I was really excited to see and others I couldn't quite remember and others still that I just hadn't thought of since I left high school. I learned that some of my "friends" are now getting ready to be doctors, are dentists, moms, speech pathologists, lawyers, PR people, and a super talented singer headed off to Italy for a few years to perfect her talent even more. It was a nice party. I am however incredibly blessed with my life here. I love my friends and my life here. The reunion reminded me in such a bold face way that I had in fact grown up and out of my insecurities. I am no longer that person that wants to be in the "in crowd". I don't care to put that much effort into all of my relationships. If you like me and we are friends, that is so wonderful. If you don't like me, okay we can move on. I am no longer going to try to make you like me. I will let you go. To pass over a friend because there might be someone else of greater status to talk to is wrong and I won't be a part of that any more. I left that bad habit when I left home. I revisited that this weekend. Or should I say that revisited me this weekend. I will leave it like that.
Today we rushed back so that I could get in an extra open water opportunity. The Irongirls were meeting for some extra practice. It was so great to see so many of us all in one place. We all practiced going out to the buoy and back (400m). I struggled all the way out--the waves were huge!!! Once I got turned around and headed back I felt better but still struggled. Once we all got back to standing the coach said anyone want to try it again? I think everyone said yes and away we went. Round 2. It just go harder. I made it though and got back. Only this time I was more relaxed on the way back. It was great. By the time I was finished, I was shakey and tired. But oh my goodness I felt great and so relieved from a tough weekend. I swam 800m today in a lake, with huge waves!! Wow!!

About the 11 miles on Friday--I ended up walking most of it due to some seriously sore legs. I think maybe I ran about the first 3 miles then hoofed the rest. I actually only completed 8.5 to be honest. I ran out of time. Too slow!! I had not felt that stiff and sore since Chi town marathon. I felt better by Saturday and not sore at all today. So a frustrating and very difficult (mentally) 8.5miles but it is done.

Blog on friends!!
Oh:
PS: Welcome to my blog everyone who has just joined in. (I learned that several people I graduated with from HS have actually been reading my blog!!) So again--welcome. Stay as long as you like.

Thanks for the support everyone!!

You guys rock!! Thanks for the support. I know that when I have a bad day you all will be there to give me constant encouragement! Isn't that what we are blogging for anyway??
I have had a great couple of days as far as my workouts go. Yesterday I ran 4 miles in 50 minutes (12:30's). Not too bad. If I haven't said this already I realize that I will sacrifice speed for frequency of workouts. I am okay with anything faster than 13 minute miles!! I ended my evening with a swim. It was fantastic!! I am increasing my distance everytime I get in the water. I did a mini ladder (100m, 100m, 150m, 200m, 300m, 400m, 100m cool down). I was very tired after finishing. Last night I did a larger ladder (100m, 200, 300, 400m, 500m, 600m, 100 cool down). I felt like I could have kept going on the 600m, but I ran out of time.
Today I helped my sis pack up and move away. I am totally crushed. To the point of tears. Tears are reserved for the privacy of my home, yet I find myself welling up in front of my future bro in law, and on the way home from work. I want her to be happy and she was not while she was living here. She is moving, or should I say on her way, to St. Louis. Sad. Hmmmm.......
I did not workout because tomorrow I am going to get that 11 mile long run in. After work, I am off to OKC for my high school reunion. Should be fun. I will give a full report when I get back!! Have a great weekend all!!
Blog on friends!!

Dead Legs!!

So I did not make it 11 miles on the dreadmill. I did make 4 though. I went over to WR lake after my bike class to finish out another 3. I rounded out my daily mileage to 7 averaging 11:10min/miles. Not as great as I had hoped but it will do. Remember anything faster than 13's will suffice. I woke up this morning ready for another speedy track workout. I met my usual buddies at the local track to get some work done. I was scheduled for 1 mile warm up, 2 x 400, 2 x 800, 2 x 400 and 1 mile cool down. I only made it through the first half of the workout. I am wondering now that I am looking back could I have plogged through the rest?? Perhaps, perhaps not. For my 400's I felt weak and super slow. My times (1:44 and 1:44) did not really show it. I immediately started feeling a bit crappy after this. My legs stiffened the shortness of breath came over me. My arms were super quivery and I felt like I could just fall asleep right there on the track. I sat down, drank some water and got my bearings. When I felt better I got up to make an attempt at the first 800. I started it and stopped. I walked a 400. After getting back around I started my 800 with the thought of I will not stop and just do it, even if it doesn't feel good. I will do it. I did (4:21). That was it. Now I was really sleepy. I sat down and got a bit dizzy. Perhaps I should have kept standing. Oh well. I stood up and my legs were way stiff. I walked to get my water and then started down the track walking. I went to some bleachers and sat down. I nearly fell asleep. My head drooped, I was breathing very hard, and my body shook. I decided that that was not the place to take a nap. I got up and ended up walking 1 mile to "cool down". I continued to struggle with my breathing and stiffness until I got home and layed down. Massoman hinted at the fact that I am on the verge of over training since I had just run 7 yesterday. Maybe he's right. This was the usual hot weather feeling though. Dizziness, sleepy, breathless, and stiff. The humidity was way high here and it felt significantly warmer. The temp was 73degrees. Hummmmmm......this will get better I hope. I am scheduled for a swim this evening and I think I will take it easy!! I will get it done, but slow and steady.
Blog on friends!!

A fun weekend of travel!!

I am in my 2nd weekend out of 3 to travel. This weekend we went to Austin for a bridal shower for my sis. It was big fun!! I was a bit frustrated because my parents popped in and I missed my open water swim on Friday. That was the whole point of staying in town until Saturday morning. Anyway, I rode my new spin bike for 2 hours as the schedule instructed. It actually said to ride for 2 hours, I am assuming it really meant ride 2 hours outside but oh well. I did ride, my legs were fatigued and I think that was the point! Today I am going for an 11 mile dreadmill run and a swim in the pool. This evening I will be going for a bike maintainence class. I am excited about that. I need to know how to change a tire and so on when I am on the road. Tomorrow invites more workouts!! I will go for now. I will report on the dreadmill run and swim later.
Blog on friends!!

A fun weekend of travel!!

I am in my 2nd weekend out of 3 to travel. This weekend we went to Austin for a bridal shower for my sis. It was big fun!! I was a bit frustrated because my parents popped in and I missed my open water swim on Friday. That was the whole point of staying in town until Saturday morning. Anyway, I rode my new spin bike for 2 hours as the schedule instructed. It actually said to ride for 2 hours, I am assuming it really meant ride 2 hours outside but oh well. I did ride, my legs were fatigued and I think that was the point! Today I am going for an 11 mile dreadmill run and a swim in the pool. This evening I will be going for a bike maintainence class. I am excited about that. I need to know how to change a tire and so on when I am on the road. Tomorrow invites more workouts!! I will go for now. I will report on the dreadmill run and swim later.
Blog on friends!!

A hot dog and a lot of catch up!!

I have had such a busy training week. Not to mention watching the MAVS!! Wednesday I rode the spin bike at the Y for 1 hour. I was 30 minutes short of my goal but I got it done. This morning I had a track party with Massoman and his BW. My job was to run a 1 mile warm up, then 3 x 1 mile repeats that were broken up by 400's (1st was all out;1:38, 1:44, 1:44, 2nd a slight bit slower; 1:48, 1:52, 1:48, 3rd easy; did not time them, and 4th walk) and cool down with 1 mile easy. Each of the 400's were seperated by 30s to1min rest. I bookended the day with a bit of a swim lesson from my friend PM. She did some coaching some time ago and offered to help. I am thankful. She helped quite a bit. I ended up doing an undetermined number of 25m's (just to get my form down a little better), then a ladder. I started with 50, 100, 125, 100(missed a step), 150, 125, 100, 75, 50 then 2 x 25 cool down. I am pooped and the MAVS are down by a lot. Grrrr!! They will come back!!

The hot dog reference might only make sense to a few people. I will briefly fill you in. You see I only sweat on one side of my body. Therefore I am likely not able to regulate temperature very well. This is something I have dealt with for 4 years now. Only it seems in the last two summers it has gotten intolerable. Since it has been so freakin hot here and the pollution has been really bad I have been short of breath. My husband made an analogy last week during my mental and physiological meltdown that perhaps my shortness of breath is my body's reaction to its inability to cool correctly. Like a dog. He meant no offense although at the time it was totally not funny. He was just trying to make me feel better. He succeeded in making me feel better and convinced me to go back to a neurologist. I will hold steady to my promise. I know this makes my dear friends runnersusan and massoman feel better. I talked about going last summer but because of my own fears and denial I did not go. I have come to the conclusion that alienating myself from my friends because they run at 6:30 instead of 5:00am is no longer acceptable. I am determined to get to the bottom of all of this mess. I will not go into all the issues right now, but I am sure if you really wanted you could go back into the archives from last summer and see a trend. It is all related from the stiffness of the legs to the inabilty to make progress as far as speed and distance. I won't go into it all right now.

I will say this, just before my meltdown I ran a 1 mile PR (8:04). Yippeeee!!! I think this gave me confidence going into my cool weather run in PA!!!

Blog on friends!!

It's chilly in Indiana, PA

I have been out of town the last few days. We have traveled to Indiana, PA for a family reunion. It was heavenly cold--or chilly. I only got to run one day, but it was a wonderful run. It was blissfully clean, quiet and cool. We started off with 55degrees and ended with about 57degrees. It was fantabulous!!
I will blog more on this later. I also have really fun pics from the trip I will share with you all!! Right now the MAVS are playing and I am a tad bit distracted. I must root for my team!!!
Go MAVS!!

400m, 5K, 14miles and 9more

Okay let's start with Friday. I went to the open water swim clinic at the lake with the irongirls. I was presented with a challenge. Do you want to swim to the buoy and back--says my coach? I responded by saying how far is it? About 200m. So out and back is a 400? Yep. Wanna try it? Okay why not. So I started off by myself. I got about 1/3 of the way out and then thought to myself, I am going back. So I did. I struggled back. We tooled around near the shore when another coach said, anyone else want to try it. I was determined to make it to that buoy. I wanted to go for it. I did and she followed. Along with another irongirl we set out for a buoy. We stopped half way to re assess the situation. We decided to procede. At this point I was starting to struggle. How could this be? I have been working so hard in the pool. Anyway, we made it to the turn around spot. The infamous buoy. I hung onto that thing for dear life. I actually sunk it a bit. The coach quickly said to get off of it, other swimmers are siting it. Oops, okay. I won't lie to you all, it was ugly. I made it back to the shore, but not before I reached a state of panic and terror. Not so much that I would drown but that I would be able to catch my breath enough to swim back. I spent more time treading than swimming. I need more practice. I left the swim clinic a bit frustrated but boosted as well. I mean I have been working really hard in the pool and you totally could not even tell. I guess I need more practice. The really great thing about it is that I made it. Swimming unlike cycling or running you don't get a break. Even when you stop swimming you still have to tread, work. With running you can slow down and walk, cycling you coast, swimming you tread--not quite the same kind of break. Hum. I made it, and that is what counts.
Saturday morning Massoman's BW and I participated in the Race for the Cure. OMG was it crowded. There were a ton of strollers and baby joggers. I realize that they are welcome, but they did not line up where they were supposed to. We got to the race a tad on the late side, but I am not sure I would have wanted to get there much earlier. BW needed to pick up her race chip and number so we waited in line and then lined up to start the race. We stood at the start line for nearly 30 minutes before starting. Talk about some hot and grumpy people. Why they delayed the start is unknown, but I will tell you that 30 minutes makes a difference in temperature. Finally we got started around 9:00 (supposed to have been 8:30). BW and I started with 3:1's. We ended up just running as long as BW could go and then walking a bit. It was tough to pace. She did a wonderful job!! We finished in 38:50. Wooohooo!! It was her first 5K. I think she is inspired to try another one, but wants to shave some more time off her pace first. I would be glad to run with her again. I had a great time.
After the race I was still scheduled for a 1.5-2 hour ride. Hotty hubby and I went after a short rest. It was hot, and I had the worst attitude. I really did not want to go. I'm glad he made me go though. I did get pretty sunburned. Hohum. We got in 14 miles in just under 1.5hours (slow!!)
Sunday
This morning I got up early to run 9 miles. I traveled to White Rock lake to meet up with the irongirls. I was way early, but did not mind because they were only going 3-6 and I needed 9 to stay on track for the marathon. I did an out and back in hopes to run into some of them on the way back when I was I tired. It worked. By mile 8 I was ready to quit. Just as I was about to take a break, I heard from behind me:
"Pick it up girl, don't quit." I whipped my head around and was greatful to see my training buddies. They were on their way back. They asked how much further I had and told me that they'd carry me back. Thank goodness they did. I was so ready to just walk the last mile. I finished running 12:30's. I made my goal. I wanted to be faster than 13 min/miles. I made it. Next long run, I'd like 12's. We'll see. I will just take it one step at a time.


My heart and thoughts go to those finishing up the San Diego Marathon today!! Way to go guys!!
Blog on friends!!

Feeling Strong

Tonight was a swim workout with the irongirls. It was big fun. We worked on technique and endurance. I was pleasantly surprised that I was able to do the mini ladder with no problem. Compared to last night's workout, this one was a breeze. It would seem that I am pushing myself harder than the coaches in the group are pushing me. No shock there. I am so tough on myself. I am hard competition (the coaches vs myself). I was glad they were there though because at one point I was tired and wanted to stop. I had 2 other irongirls in my lane that kept me going. It was really nice. My arms are whipped as usual. I am pleasantly sleepy. I think it might be time to head to bed!! Goodnight all!!
Blog on friends!!

It's been awhile...

since I have blogged that is. Sorry about that!! I have been busy!!
Monday I ran with runnersusan. We did a recovery run for her and a long run for me. We did 8 miles. It was tough, but not bad. I was moving at a snails pace!! (14:13's). I finished and that is all that matters.
Tuesday I rode the spin cycle at the Y for 45 minutes. Boring. I have to learn what 90-100RPM's feels like.
Wednesday I ran trails with runnersusan. I have never done that before. It was pretty tough. I liked it. The key to trail running is to keep your eyes on the trail. I fell because I saw a bunny and was watching it. Just as soon as I looked at it, I was on the ground. Oops. I laughed. I am always falling down. Hmmm. I was supposed to test in the afternoon but due to an uncooperative van, I got the day off. Yippee!! I decided to go for a swim. Here was my workout:
1 x 200 warm up
1x 100
1 x 200
1x 300
1 x 400
2 x 50 kicking
1 x 200 cool down
I was whipped after that.
I still needed to get a ride in so hotty hubby and I went for a ride. We rode on some local trails (about 10-12miles). The bugs and gnats were terrible. I was wondering what the RDA is for gnat protein? Gross!! We made it back home and I was asleep faster than you could say goodnight.
This morning runnersusan and I went for another short run (3miles--11:57's). It was cooler but my goodness the humidity was almost unbearable. It was nice to get it over with. Tonight is another swim with the group. I am rested up and ready to go!!
My hips and hams are sore. (Just a note for myself).

Blog on friends!!

Holy Heck Yall it's hot in Tejas!!

Playing Catch up!!

Okay, so I had a very eventful and uneventful weekend. Let's start off with Saturday. I rode in the CrossTimbers Classic. I know, all of you local cyclists will snub this ride, but let me tell you all, it was a big deal to me!! I trained hard for this ride. I trained my friend PM for a whole year for that ride. We did it. We made it all the way through the 30miles. I don't have any idea how long it took us or what our average speed was and to be honest, I don't really care. I care about that the fact that PM finished pain free when one year ago she could hardly walk. I could not be more proud of her. That was her marathon!! I am so happy for her. Kevin also rode with us. Yay, Kev!! He totally out rode the two of us.

The thing about rallies or tours or whatever they are is that they are so completely different than a race. Like any runner would be I was baffled by the fact that the rest stops are really social breaks. They were points along the way where you get off your bike, have a snack and revel at the fact that you have made it this far. I understand, it may not be this way in a "race", nonetheless I found it fascinating. I also found it intresting that there were no mile markers, no cheering squads, and a less than motivating sign at the end to let you know that you crossed the finish line, sort of, I think. We passed a sign that said finish, but were we done at the sign or further up where people were sitting and having more snacks? And how long did it take us--no clock. I was left feeling such a wonderful sense of accomplishment and no one but my dear hubby and training friend to celebrate with. Hum...kinda let down. Are they all this way??

Anywho. Sunday morning right away was met with a severely grumpy stomach. Oh my gosh, what is going on? Oh yeah I had salad the night before. Oops. I met the group at White Rock lake to run 4. 5miles. I made it through the first 3 miles before... what the heck is going on with my stomach? I suddenly had this, must find a potty feeling, coming over me. I had Nikko with me and what do you do with your dog when you are in a Johnny on the spot puking your guts out?? Let's say this...I walked back to the car, but no before stopping a few more times along the way. Hey Susan, I now understand what you were going through all those times with an upset stomach for so many miles. How did you do it?? I managed to get to the car and get home. I started to feel a bit better so I had a PB and J sandwich on spelt. I showered and then holy cow, my stomach again!! This can't be happening, I was having such a good weekend!! In the end, I spent most of Sunday in and out of the bathroom and most of Monday asleep trying to make up for what I lost on Sunday. I lost 6 pounds. Gross!! All I had to do was feel better and lookey there I found my 6 pounds!! I am feeling better, but I still did not workout today. I had a busy day of testing and training. I chose to sleep in, just to make sure the stomach bug was gone~wink wink. I was just lazy. Tomorrow is full day of playing catch up!! Good luck with that my hotty hubby says.
Blog on friends!!